Winter 2026 Olympics and FIFA World Cup Updates, Insurance Built for Hospitality, Buy BC Program, and More ----------------------------------------------- |
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Liquor Industry Update: February 5, 2026 |
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Dear ABLE BC Members and Industry Colleagues,
Here's the latest news for the private liquor industry: - Winter 2026 Olympics: What Licensees Need to Know
New ABLE BC Liquor Hospitality Committee Insurance built for Hospitality: A Benefit of ABLE BC Membership FIFA World Cup is Coming: What You Need to Know about Licensing & Amendments -
BCRFA FIFA World Cup Foodservice Contract: Taste the Beautiful Game - BC Style
- BC Food & Beverage Producers: Increase Your Visibility with Buy BC Partnership Program
- BCHA Summit 2026: Preliminary Program Announced
2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference Program Updates
BC Hospitality Foundation: Celebrating 20 Years and Open Scholarships - Women in Tourism, Hospitality, or Recreation: Ready to Grow Your Career?
What you'll find in every newsletter: |
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Winter 2026 Olympics: What Licensees Need to Know |
The Winter 2026 Olympics kick off tomorrow (February 6-22, 2026), and for pubs, bars, and hospitality venues across BC, it’s a major opportunity to drive foot traffic, extend dwell time, and bring communities together around the games. Whether your venue is planning early-morning watch parties or full-day Olympic coverage, here’s what you need to know to be ready.
Olympic Viewing Schedule With events happening across multiple time zones, many of the most anticipated competitions will air outside of standard business hours. We encourage licensees to review the Olympic broadcast schedule and identify key events that align with your audience and operating hours.
Extended Liquor Licence Hours - Apply ASAP If you plan to show Olympic events outside your currently approved liquor service hours, you’ll need to apply for extended hours in advance.
Applications must be approved before the event, and processing times can vary - so we strongly recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid missing out on Olympic-related service opportunities.
For more information, please refer to the Terms and Conditions handbooks and Change a Liquor License page on the LCRB website. If you have questions about extended hours or compliance requirements, ABLE BC is here to support you: comms@ablebc.ca.
Licensing Portal Planned Maintenance
Please be advised the liquor and cannabis licensing portal will be unavailable February 5 (5 p.m. to February 9 (8 a.m.), 2026. Account access, licence changes and SEP applications will not be available during this time.
Please refer to the LCRB website for more information. |
New ABLE BC Liquor Hospitality Committee |
We’re excited to announce the launch of ABLE BC’s Hospitality Committee. Together with President Yvan Charette and Director Owen Coomer, we are building a dedicated committee to represent liquor primaries – including pubs, bars, nightclubs, and new hospitality establishments. This committee will meet regularly to serve as both a radar for emerging trends and challenges and a think tank for policy development. We are actively seeking members from across the province and across different types of establishments to ensure the committee reflects the diversity of BC’s liquor hospitality sector. Our goal is to emulate the success of ABLE BC’s other committees and ensure that the voice of liquor hospitality is championed effectively. More details will be announced soon in a future Liquor Industry Update.
If you are an ABLE BC member and interested in joining the committee, please contact us at comms@ablebc.ca |
Insurance Built for Hospitality: A Benefit of ABLE BC Membership |
As an ABLE BC member, you have access to a commercial insurance program designed specifically for hospitality and liquor retail businesses through our partnership with Western Financial Group - a benefit that could make a real difference for your operation.
Whether you’re reviewing your current coverage or considering new insurance options, here’s an overview of what this program offers and why it’s worth exploring.
What the Hospitality Insurance Program (HIP) Covers
The industry-focused Hospitality Insurance Program (HIP) provides flexible commercial insurance solutions tailored to the risks faced by pubs, bars, hotels, motels, and liquor stores. It’s built to protect your business against challenges that are specific to the hospitality and licensed retail industries.
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Commercial General Liability - protection if someone is injured on your property or there’s damage to third-party property.
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Cyber Liability - helps manage the impact of data breaches or cyberattacks.
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Business Interruption Insurance - supports your income if you must close temporarily due to an insured event.
Western’s team works with you to tailor coverage specific to your business needs rather than offering one-size-fits-all policies. Program Structure and Member Value
The HIP operates under a Protected Self-Insurance (PSI) structure, which gives members a sense of ownership over their premiums and helps stabilize long-term rates. Over time, surpluses can result in premium returns to members in years with low claims - a feature not typically found in traditional commercial insurance plans.
How to Access the Program
ABLE BC membership in good standing is all that’s needed to participate in the program. To learn more or get a quote, visit the commercial insurance section of the Western Financial Group site. You can also contact Western’s team directly at 1-800-665-8990 to speak with a specialist about your options. |
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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. |
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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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FIFA World Cup is Coming: What You Need to Know about Licensing & Amendments |
With Vancouver set to take centre stage as a Host City for the FIFA World Cup 26™, kicking off June 13, 2026, hospitality businesses across the region have a major opportunity ahead — and an important deadline to prepare for.
Some matches will begin as early as 9:00 am PST due to international broadcast schedules. View the Match Day Schedule here. If you’re planning to open earlier, stay open later, or otherwise adjust your liquor service hours to accommodate match schedules, now is the time to submit your licensing amendment application.
Applications must be approved before the event, and processing times can vary - so we strongly recommend applying as soon as possible. New Information from LCRB: Liquor Primaries and Manufacturers
This week, the LCRB emailed Liquor Primaries and Manufacturers additional details on liquor licensing considerations for the FIFA World Cup, and to highlight options available to licensees who may wish to host events or make temporary changes to their liquor licence during the tournament.
The LCRB will be prioritizing FIFA-related applications and providing hands-on support to help licensees make the most of the economic opportunities associated with the tournament.
For more information: download a copy of the LP (page 1) and Manufacturer (page 5) email.
Application Tips and Best Practices
We spoke with ABLE BC Expert and Associate Member Rebecca Hardin, President of Thrive Advisors, to get her practical advice on navigating licensing amendments ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Here are her top tips: - Start early — the process can take longer than expected
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Every municipality is different — policies, timelines, and steps vary
- Submit online first, then call your city — don’t wait for them to find your application
- Ask about fees, forms, and consultation requirements right away
Need Help Navigating This?
We encourage you to contact Rebecca at Thrive Advisors. Book your complimentary consultation here. The City is also encouraging businesses to review the Community Activation Playbook, which outlines options for public viewing, permitting, event activations, and FIFA-related programming. |
BCRFA FIFA World Cup Foodservice Contract: Taste the Beautiful Game - BC Style |
The BC Restaurant & Foodservices Association (BCRFA) has shared the following news for their membership:
In conjunction with the World Cup Program, the BCRFA has officially secured the foodservice contract, “Taste the Beautiful Game – BC Style”, encouraging activities across British Columbia. This province-wide program aims to help restaurants host watch parties, drive traffic, celebrate BC-grown food and drink, and share in the economic benefits of this once-in-a-generation moment.
The BCRFA working in full alignment with the Craft Brewers Guild, Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC), and Wine Growers British Columbia, leveraging their collective networks to amplify every opportunity for their membership.
If you want your business considered for participation, you must register. Spaces will be limited, and selection will move quickly. Register today. Learn more here. |
BC Food & Beverage Producers: Increase Your Visibility with Buy BC Partnership Program |
Intake for Buy BC Partnership Program cost-shared funding is now open!
Applications Dates: January 26 – February 20, 2026 (deadline: 4pm PST)
BC food and beverage producers could receive funding to support local marketing activities delivered April to November 2026, increasing consumer awareness and sales of your products within BC! Examples include: - Paid advertising
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Labelling and packaging
- Marketing collateral
- Market development trade shows and sales events
- In-store product demonstrations and promotions
Find out if you’re eligible and apply at buybcpartnershipprogram.ca.
This program is administered by MNP LLP on behalf of B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and Food. |
BCHA Summit 2026: Preliminary Program Announced |
The BCHA Summit comes to Nanaimo April 15-16, uniting 350+ hotel owners, operators, and industry leaders.
Over two days, the event features an engaging program, a bustling vendor Marketplace, and the prestigious Awards of Excellence gala - the premier forum for learning, networking, and collaboration in BC’s hotel sector.
First of Four Keynotes Announced BCHA Summit 2026 will feature an expanded keynote lineup, focused on how hotels and destinations can turn credibility and impact into demand, loyalty, and revenue.
We are pleased to announce the first of four keynote speakers: Jonny Bierman, an award-winning travel journalist published in Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, BBC, and National Geographic, who brings a clear-eyed perspective on how sustainability and trust shape traveller decisions and business performance.
Early bird registration ends Saturday, February 7. You have just a few days left to save 25% on Summit registration! |
2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference Program Updates |
2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference is Almost Here! The conference takes place March 4-6, 2026 at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort in beautiful Kelowna, BC. The theme for the conference is ‘The Transformative Power of BC Tourism'.
Program Highlights
TIABC is hard at work shaping the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference program, with new speakers and session details announced regularly on the conference website.
You can expect a dynamic lineup of keynote, plenary, and breakout sessions designed to spark conversation, share insights, and connect as a community.
Below are just a few highlights to look forward to:
Opening Keynote with Tod Maffin: Relentless Decency - A Practical Approach to Acting On What We Say We Value
Tod Maffin, Expert on Canadian Culture and Identity, Former CBC Broadcaster & Viral Content Creator.
Tod brings sharp insight, humour, and fresh perspective to what it means to be Canadian today. His must-see keynote will help teams deepen connection while challenging us to think critically, laugh thoughtfully, and reconsider the stories we tell ourselves about who we are as a country — offering a rare and hopeful take on Canada’s future at a time when it’s needed most.
Closing Keynote with Mark Brand: Tourism With Purpose - Building Canada’s Legacy Together Mark Brand, Chef, Social-Impact Entrepreneur, and Relentless Optimist.
Mark works at the intersection of food, community, and impact. As founder of UPWARD KITCHENS, his teams serve more than 6,500 meals daily and have delivered over 6.5 million meals. His global work spans serving as Executive Chef for the American Refugee Committee, collaborating on Pope Francis’s Climate Challenge, being named Entrepreneur in Residence for the City of Sydney and being awarded Canada’s Golden Jubilee Medal and King Charles III’s Coronation Medal for his service.
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BC Hospitality Foundation: Celebrating 20 Years and Open Scholarships |
This year, the BC Hospitality Foundation is celebrating 20 years. 20 years ago, before crowdfunding existed and social media became popular, one crisis became a foundational moment for BC Hospitality Foundation.
In 2006, Michael Willingham, a beloved figure in BC's wine industry, suffered a brain aneurysm that left him partially paralyzed and facing overwhelming medical bills. His colleagues stepped in, raising $50,000 to help him through the hardest time of his life.
Seeing the difference it made for him, Michael encouraged his colleagues to establish a charity to help others in the industry facing similar hardships. His perseverance, generosity and advocacy led directly to the founding of the BCHF, the only charity in Canada supporting BC hospitality workers during medical crises. He inspired a movement of care and community that continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of hospitality professionals across British Columbia.
Twenty years later, BCHF has distributed over $1.28 million to individuals and families across BC. From covering rent and groceries to paying medical bills, Michael's legacy lives on in every person we've been able to help.
This year, as they celebrate 20 years, we're reminded of what started it all: an industry that takes care of its own.
If this story resonates with you, please share it with those in hospitality who should know about BCHF.
2026 BCHF Scholarships are now open: Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship - Deadline: February 25
Culinary Leadership Scholarships - Deadline: March 31 - Chef Nik Lim Scholarship
- Greg King Legacy Scholarship
- Gia Pastion Legacy Scholarship
- Chef Valerie Soon Scholarship
Learn more. |
Women in Tourism, Hospitality, or Recreation: Ready to Grow Your Career? |
Applications are now open for the Spring intake of the WORTH Mentorship Program. Whether you're early in your career or an experienced professional ready to give back, this is your chance to build connections, gain insights, and help shape the future of our industry.
Apply by January 30 to take part in this valuable professional development opportunity.
Learn more about WORTH: https://www.worthassociation.com/mentorship |
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Valued Partners of ABLE BC |
Our valued partners play a vital role in advancing our industry, and we’re proud to highlight their continued support. |
Cannabis Corner: Cannabis Delivers - $10B to GDP and $5.4B in Taxes for Canada |
A new report shared in the House of Commons shows that since legalization in 2018, federal and provincial governments have collected over $5.4 billion in cannabis tax revenue. Provinces and territories received the lion’s share - $4.2 billion - while the federal government collected $1.2 billion. Ontario leads with $1.5 billion, Alberta with $1.1 billion, Quebec with $501 million, and BC with $479 million.
Retail’s Role in a $10 Billion Industry
Canada’s licensed cannabis sector contributed $10.9 billion to GDP as of October 2025, up from $9.3 billion a year earlier. Licensed production leads the way, contributing $10 billion, with retail adding $930 million. Retailers are seeing the impact firsthand: household spending on cannabis has nearly doubled since 2020, topping $9 billion in 2024, with the majority coming through legal channels.
Even with slight seasonal dips, like the $451.7 million in October 2025, overall consumer demand remains strong, demonstrating that legal cannabis retail is a thriving and growing part of Canada’s economy. |
go2HR on Tap: Introducing go2HR for Hire |
For decades, go2HR has been a trusted partner to BC’s Tourism & Hospitality industry, offering expert HR resources and guidance to support employers province-wide. That commitment continues, and now it grows.
Now, they’re expanding that support with a new premium paid service: go2HR For Hire, designed for employers who need more than advisory support and are looking for direct, hands-on HR expertise. This new offering allows employers to work directly with go2HR’s experienced HR consultants for support with recruitment and onboarding, workplace policies and compliance, people and culture development, and ongoing fractional HR services.
Built on go2HR’s deep sector knowledge, go2HR For Hire delivers practical, customized HR solutions tailored specifically to the realities of Tourism & Hospitality workplaces. go2HR For Hire is more than a new service. It is a new chapter in go2HR’s story of supporting employers across the province.
Check out how go2HR can support your team’s growth today, or email them at hireus@go2HR.ca to start the conversation |
Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars Check out these upcoming events: |
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