Bottle Service, SPARK 2025 Program LDB Inventory Count, and more ----------------------------------------------- |
Please note: Earlier this month, Microsoft Outlook users may have noticed broken links in our communications. This issue has now been resolved. Apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused. |
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Liquor Industry Update: January 23, 2025 |
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| Dear ABLE BC members and industry colleagues,
Here's the latest news for the private liquor industry: - A Message from ABLE BC's Executive Director, Jeff Guignard
- SPARK 2025 Program Sneak Peek
- Bourgogne Wines: A Closer Look
- Advocacy Win: Bottle Service Now Allowed!
- LP Licences for Outdoor Event Venues
- LDB Inventory Count: February 6-9, 2025
- Destination Canada Mobility Forum
What you'll find in every newsletter: |
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A Message from ABLE BC's Executive Director, Jeff Guignard This year, ABLE BC is celebrating its 50th anniversary. That’s 50 years of successful advocacy on behalf of British Columbia’s private liquor industry; a half a century of hard work for our members, partners, colleagues, and friends. We began in 1975 when a group of concerned small business owners founded the BC Neighbourhood Pub Owners’ Association. We’ve changed our name a few times since then, but our focus has never waived. For 50 years, we have remained at the forefront of every significant liquor (and now cannabis) policy issue in BC. It’s a legacy of success we’re immensely proud of. Stay tuned for more details of how we’ll celebrate our 50 years of liquor policy success throughout 2025.
Speaking of success, last week we announced that Liquor Primaries may finally offer bottle service to their customers. This long overdue change will help LPs build new revenue streams while offering world-class hospitality experiences. I’ve already heard from several nightclub members about the positive impact this will have on their businesses.
Which reminds me of another long overdue change. Six years ago this month, in January 2019, the Competition Bureau of Canada wrote to then Attorney General David Eby to recommend that BC adopt wholesale pricing for hospitality customers, and permit hospitality licensees to purchase from private liquor stores (i.e. licensee-to-licensee sales).
While we won wholesale hospitality pricing in 2021, industry is still waiting for government to allow licensee-to-licensee sales. Given industry’s current struggles to maintain profitability amid high inflation, shifting consumer habits, the threat of US tariffs, possible bans on US alcohol imports, and overall affordability concerns, we know that licensee-to-licensee sales would go a long way toward supporting BC’s liquor retail and hospitality industries. It will remain a significant focus of our advocacy efforts with BC’s new government in 2025.
While the NDP returned to power after the fall 2024 election, government’s focus has shifted. Last week, Premier Eby issued mandate letters to BC’s new Cabinet Ministers. We are pleased to see liquor and cannabis priorities named in three mandate letters, which you can view here:
We share government’s goals to grow the economy, create good jobs, and make communities safer for citizens and businesses. We look forward to working with Ministers and staff on our shared priorities and to ensure that your voices, and your concerns, are heard and addressed. We will of course keep our members informed of our progress along the way.
The best way to stay on top of current issues is to attend our upcoming SPARK 2025: BC Liquor & Cannabis Conference on March 5 in Vancouver. Early bird pricing is still on for one more day, so don’t wait to get your tickets!
Lastly, many of you have contacted me recently with questions about the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) collective agreement, which expires on March 31. Like you, I recall the damaging labour action that disrupted liquor and cannabis distribution for two weeks in 2022. That strike hurt your businesses and workers, led to millions in lost revenue, product shortages on everything from spirits to RTDs, and limits on hospitality purchases. To be blunt, industry cannot afford another similar disruption at this critical time. In the coming months we will be delivering that message directly to government and the BCGEU. We will continue to monitor negotiations and will keep members apprised of developments.
As always, you can contact me at jeff@ablebc.ca if you have questions or concerns. |
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People Working Well
The CMHA BC and go2HR have created a resource for tourism and hospitality employers and employees dealing with mental health challenges at work. |
| Cannabis Industry Update Newsletter
Sign up for our Cannabis Industry Update Newsletter to learn more about our advocacy for cannabis retailers. Click here to read past cannabis newsletters. |
| ABLE BC Member Portal The Member Portal is your hub for all resources and benefits available to ABLE BC members. Contact jesse@ablebc.ca if you need help logging in. |
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SPARK 2025 Program Sneak Peek
The SPARK 2025 program is your ticket to success! From inspiring keynote speakers to hands-on workshops and networking opportunities, this year's lineup is designed to ignite ideas and spark connections. What to expect at SPARK 2025: - Face time with executives from the LCRB, Cannabis Secretariat & LDB.
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Practical solutions to increase profit margins and streamline retail operations.
- Effective strategies to tackle crime & public safety.
- Exclusive liquor & cannabis trends & data.
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Innovative ways to boost employee recruitment & retention.
- ABLE BC's latest updates on liquor & cannabis policy priorities.
Who you'll meet at SPARK 2025: - David Hume, General Manager of the LCRB.
- Liquor & cannabis suppliers & service providers.
- Erin McEwan, Assistant Deputy Minister of the LDB.
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HR experts & WorkSafeBC leaders.
- Lorne Folick, leading host liability insurance expert.
- Inspirational speakers & thought leaders.
Full program details coming soon! |
Member Rates Early Bird: $395 | Regular: $549 Log in to the Member Portal to secure your member rate. Non-Member Rates Early Bird: $495 | Regular: $649 Discounted Group Rates Available Save up to 25% when you register three or more people. That translates to a savings of $296 or more!
Contact jesse@ablebc.ca to claim your group rate. |
SPARK 2025 Early Bird Pricing Ends January 24! Don't wait to lock in registration with over 25% in savings! |
Bourgogne Wines: A Closer Look
The Bourgogne Wine Board invites you to uncover a deeper story, one that goes beyond the iconic appellations, and to explore the hidden treasures of this historic region. We are delighted to introduce you to the concept of "Take a Closer Look" at Bourgogne Wines. This is an invitation to step off the beaten path and delve into the lesser-known appellations that form the heart of Burgundy's remarkable diversity.
Experience the diversity and depth of Burgundy's Terroir, expressed through an exceptional range of wines presented by 19 winemakers eager to share their passion and know-how. Bourgogne Wines Industry Tasting - The Vancouver Club, 915 W Hastings, Vancouver
- Monday, March 3, 2025
- 11:00am - 4:00pm
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Advocacy Win: Bottle Service Now Allowed!
We are delighted to share great news for our Liquor Primary and Liquor Primary Club members -- bottle service is now allowed!
ABLE BC has long advocated for this change as we know how important it is for clubs, bars, and nightclubs, to offer a VIP service to their guests and to further differentiate themselves from Food Primary licensees. We're grateful that our government partners at the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) understand the value that bottle service will bring to Liquor Primary licensees. Licensees who sell and serve a bottle of spirits (bottle service), must follow these terms and conditions: - You must not pour more than the maximum serving size per patron at any time.
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A whole bottle of spirits must not be sold within the last hour of liquor service.
- You must maintain control of the bottle of spirits during liquor service and have a system to ensure that patrons do not self-serve.
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Any remaining liquor in the bottle can be stored for the patron’s exclusive use if you have created secure and separate storage for this purpose.
- In Liquor Primary Clubs with locker room privileges, the bottle of spirits may alternatively be stored by the member in their locker.
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Any remaining liquor must be disposed of immediately if separate storage measures have not been established.
The full details of this change can be found in Bulletin 25-01: Liquor Primary establishments may offer bottle service. |
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LP Licences for Outdoor Event Venues The LCRB has announced Bulletin 25-02: Liquor Primary licences for Outdoor Event Venues.
This change allows outdoor venues that host several Special Event Permit (SEP) events to apply for a permanent LP licence.
We are concerned that this change may inadvertently remove an important revenue stream for LRSs who frequently sell to SEP holders. We have engaged with the LCRB on this and hope to find a solution soon.
ABLE BC is working hard to protect your investments and ensure that your business can thrive.
Please contact jeff@ablebc.ca if you have questions. |
LDB Inventory Count: February 6-9, 2025
The BC Liquor Distribution Branch’s annual inventory count will be held from Thursday, February 6 to Sunday, February 9, 2025. Distribution centres in Delta and Kamloops will be closed during this period and will not be filling orders.
The Wholesale Customer Centre will email impacted customers of any changes to their shipping schedule.
Victoria Wholesale Centre Customers:
Customers may place orders during the inventory count, but only products stocked in the WCC Victoria can be fulfilled until the count is complete. During this time, products fulfilled directly from the distribution centres and non-stocked wholesale product (NSWP) may be delayed.
The Wholesale Customer Centre in Victoria will be open during regular business hours, Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Contact the Wholesale Customer Centre Victoria at 250-356-2906 or wccvictoriainfo@bcldb.com. Hospitality Customers Serviced by BC Liquor Stores:
Hospitality customers serviced by BCLIQUOR (BCL) stores may continue to place orders during the inventory count, but only products stocked in the store can be fulfilled until the count is completed.
During this time, products fulfilled directly from the distribution centres and non-stocked wholesale products (NSWP) may be delayed.
Contact LDB Wholesale Operations at 604-775-0681, 1-888-775-0681, or wholesalehelp@bcldb.com.
Vancouver Wholesale Customer Centre Customers:
You may place orders during this period; however, orders will not be processed until the count is completed. You will not receive Order Submission Reports from 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, until operations resume on Monday, February 10, 2025. Returns will not be processed from Monday, February 3, 2025, to Monday, February 10, 2025, inclusive. During the inventory count at the LDB distribution centres, and those at third-party warehouses, you may experience a delay in receiving non-stocked wholesale products (NSWP).
Your location’s order time or delivery day will not be impacted by the annual inventory count, unless you receive a separate notification email from WCC Vancouver advising of any changes.
The Wholesale Customer Centre will be open during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Contact the Wholesale Customer Centre at 604-775-0681, 1-888-775-0681, or wholesalehelp@bcldb.com. |
Destination Canada Mobility Forum |
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The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) is still accepting submissions to join the Destination Canada Mobility Forum! This annual international recruitment event offers a fantastic, cost-effective opportunity to connect with skilled bilingual individuals eager to work in Canada’s hospitality industry.
The BCHA is proud to represent BC bars and pubs to support their staffing needs.
If you have questions about the Forum and how you can get involved, please reach out to BCHA Workforce Strategist, Alison Langford at alison@bcha.com. |
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By joining the Forum through BCHA you'll gain: -
Access to Skilled Talent: Connect with pre-screened candidates for key hospitality roles outlined by you.
- LMIA Exemption: Skip the Labour Market Impact Assessment, saving time and resources.
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Cost-Effective Recruitment: Tap into a valuable resource at a fraction of traditional recruitment costs.
- Vetting & Matching: Let BCHA handle the vetting process. We match the right candidates with your job orders.
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Ask an Expert: The Importance of Kitchen Safety
In the high-pressure world of bar, pub, or restaurant kitchens, safety is essential. Foodbuy Canada’s Corporate Chef Wayne Nichols shares practical steps for a safe work environment: - Identify hazards,
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Provide thorough training, and
- Equipping staff with proper protective gear like slip-resistant footwear and cut-resistant gloves.
Regular cleaning and maintenance routines, along with fire safety measures, help reduce risks and foster a culture where kitchen safety is everyone’s responsibility. “By identifying hazards, implementing protocols, and promoting a culture of safety, we can create spaces where kitchen staff thrive safely,” Nichols emphasizes. Let’s work together to protect the hands behind every great dish! |
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Interested in becoming an ABLE Expert? Contact jesse@ablebc.ca to learn more. |
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Cannabis Corner: StratCann's Growing Relationships Event in Mission, BC
StratCann’s Growing Relationships is a must-attend, one-day B2B event bringing together cannabis retailers, producers, and service providers for meaningful networking, brainstorming, and learning.
With a focus on accessibility and fostering connections, this event is designed to help cannabis professionals thrive by building relationships, sharing insights, and driving innovation.
As an Event Partner, we’re excited to support this BC event featuring signature networking sessions and roundtable discussions that tackle industry challenges and generate actionable insights for key stakeholders.
Event Details: - Date: Monday, February 10, 2025
- Time: 9:00am-3:00pm
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Location: Mission Springs Brewing Company - 7160 Oliver St., Mission, BC
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Cost: A limited number of discounted & complimentary tickets are available to ABLE BC members! Contact bo@ablebc.ca to claim yours.
Join us and be part of the conversation shaping the future of BC’s cannabis industry! |
go2HR on Tap: Start the Year Right with HR Reviews
go2HR is a regular contributor to the ABLE BC Liquor Industry Update newsletter, providing tips and guidance on current HR trends, new legislation, employee recruitment and retention, and more. To read the latest instalment, sign in to the member portal or sign up for the newsletter.
The New Year is often a reflective time period for our employees and ourselves, especially for those who set resolutions as part of their annual traditions and goal-setting for the coming year.
For employers, leadership, and HR, the roll over into the New Year can also mean updated jurisdictional legislation, changes to legal compliance and health & safety standards, thus making it the perfect time to review your HR policies and ensure you are up to date. While doing so, consider implementing a best practice of organizational goal-setting by assessing and reflecting on what policies and practices worked well in the previous year, and what can be improved on.
Critical updates for each year are typically posted on the BC Employment Standard Act webpage, WorkSafeBC, released in HR periodicals, and updated on legal blogs, making it relatively easy to source most new compliance requirements.
What may not be as easy to come by is the time and capacity to review existing content and re-write policy. If you need support for policy review, revision or development, the HR Consultant team at go2HR can support you in assessing your existing policies, identifying gap areas, and revising language that aligns with your organization’s vision, values, and workplace culture. To get started, find your Regional HR Consultant here: https://www.go2hr.ca/human-resources/hr-advisory
go2HR, the HR and health and safety association for the BC Tourism and Hospitality Industry, has a wealth of resources to support you. We invite you to connect with us to learn more about how you can support your employees with health and safety at safety@go2HR.ca.
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Out and About with ABLE BC
ABLE BC’s LRS Policy Committee convened their first meeting of 2025 earlier this week. The committee discussed the recent change that allows outdoor event venues that hold frequent Special Event Permit (SEP) events to apply for Liquor Primary licences, licensee-to-licensee sales, and other policy priorities for the coming months. Want to join the committee or flag an issue for them to tackle? Contact jeff@ablebc.ca.
Our team is hard at work finalizing program details for SPARK 2025! This year’s conference is sure to be a hit, so don’t miss out! You have one more day of early bird pricing, so act fast. |
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In case you missed it, ABLE BC appeared in the following media recently: |
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Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars Check out these upcoming events: - Growing Relationships, Mission, February 10
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Vancouver International Wine Festival, February 22-March 2
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Bourgogne Wines Industry Tasting, Vancouver, March 3
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SPARK: BC Liquor & Cannabis Conference, Vancouver, March 5
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BC Tourism Industry Conference, Vancouver, March 5-7
- WORTH Leadership Summit, Vancouver, March 11
- Victoria Cocktail Week, April 13-20
- BCHA Summit, Vancouver, April 22-23
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