As of Sept. 5, convenience stores across Ontario can now sell alcohol, including beer, wine, and ready-made cocktails. 

The availability of beer, wine, and ready-made cocktails at corner stores is happening faster than expected. Ont. Premier Doug Ford’s government announced its plan to “modernize” the alcohol market last December, with the changes initially set for 2026. However, that timeline was moved up by more than a year in May, a decision welcomed by store operators, and heavily contested by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO).                                                      

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) reports that 4,180 convenience stores have been licensed. Among them are two near Fanshawe College's main campus in London, where opinions on the new policy are varied.

Maria Zuluaga, a South American student of Fanshawe College, expressed a generally positive stance but stressed the importance of local readiness.

'It all depends. I think if the city's prepared to have more alcohol in the streets. I'm from South America and for us, the alcohol-selling industries are pretty standard. For me, it's OK,' Zuluaga said.

Zuluaga also indicated that pricing would be a significant factor in deciding where to buy alcohol.

'If [it's] more expensive, I will choose LCBO. But if not, I would probably be doing convenience stores. But I do not drink every day,' Zuluaga added.

Another student at Fanshawe College, Sameer Patel, highlighted that this benefits those who drink alcohol and do not live near a liquor store like LCBO.

'It is a better option because a convenience store is near every street. People quickly find it and don't have to suffer a very long [trip] to move from one place to another,' Patel said.

However, there are limitations on when alcohol can be sold. Despite the extended hours of many convenience stores, AGCO specifies that alcohol sales can only occur between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., providing a longer window than at The Beer Store or LCBO. Staff selling alcohol must be over 18 and have completed a mandatory training course. Additionally, sales are limited to those over 19, with identification checks required for anyone appearing underage.

'I don't think it will be a big deal. The Beer Store is just up the street, about a block or so away. I think it should be fine if people, you know, are responsible and don't abuse it,” said London resident Devin Cabana.

The plan to increase alcohol availability will include big box stores selling alcohol in November.