RTD Direct Delivery Rollout, Stay Inspection-Ready, New World Cup Bylaws, and More ----------------------------------------------- |
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Liquor Industry Update:
May 14, 2026 |
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Dear ABLE BC Members and Industry Colleagues,
Here's the latest news for the private liquor industry: What you'll find in every newsletter: |
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RTD Direct Delivery Rollout: New Details from the LDB |
Following the LDB’s March announcement allowing eligible BC manufacturers to directly deliver packaged refreshment beverages (RTDs) to wholesale customers, the LDB has now released additional implementation details outlining how the new system will operate.
The policy change — which applies to eligible BC breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cider producers authorized to manufacture refreshment beverages — marks a significant step forward in modernizing BC’s liquor distribution system and improving supply chain flexibility for industry. As previously shared, this change will allow eligible BC manufacturers to directly distribute packaged refreshment beverages to bars, restaurants, and private liquor stores, creating efficient access to more product selection.
What’s New
According to the LDB’s May 7 update, all new product registrations in this product category from eligible BC manufacturers will now default to direct delivery.
Manufacturers currently distributing eligible RTD SKUs through the LDB may also apply to transition products to direct delivery through an off-boarding process managed by Wholesale Category Management.
Read more here.
A Flexible Model That Supports Growth
This policy change helps create a more responsive system that supports: - Flexibility in product access for hospitality businesses
- Improves ability for brands/manufacturers to launch new products to test the market
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Expands product selection for retailers, bars, and restaurants
- More choice for consumers
ABLE BC Executive Director Bo Chen recently spoke about the changes on the Jas Johal Show (segement at 37:33) and other media engagements, emphasizing that the policy represents a collaborative win across all industry stakeholders.
Bo clarified: The new model allows brands to innovate more quickly and receive direct market feedback from hospitality operators and consumers. At the same time, products that prove successful and become long-term, high-volume SKUs will likely be picked up into LDB's central distribution — helping support long-term distribution stability and ongoing unionized warehouse operations. Additional Resources
Manufacturers are encouraged to review the updated resources available through the LDB, including: |
Stay Inspection-Ready: ID Checks and Staff Training |
With summer just around the corner and students soon to be out of school, ABLE BC is encouraging licensees to remain diligent when it comes to ID checks, staff training, and due diligence procedures.
The Minors as Agents Program (MAP) is one of the LCRB’s key compliance tools used to monitor responsible cannabis and liquor sales. Under the program, minors employed and supervised by the LCRB attempt to purchase cannabis or liquor from licensed establishments. As a reminder, LCRB inspectors will contact licensees directly if a sale is made to a minor agent. Since May 2025, licensees who successfully refuse service during a MAP inspection will also receive an automatic email notification from the LCRB within 14 days confirming they passed the compliance check. Checking identification remains one of the most important steps licensees can take to prevent contraventions and protect their business from enforcement action or penalties. Licensees are encouraged to ensure staff understand: - When and how to properly check ID
- Acceptable forms of identification
- House policies for age verification
- Procedures for refusing service when necessary
- Documentation and due diligence practices
Some licensees choose to check ID for every customer, while others require ID from anyone who appears under a certain age threshold, such as 30 years old. Whatever your policy may be, consistency and staff training are critical.
Helpful resources can be found on the LCRB website, including Check ID Decal 2026 and Identification Sign for Entrance into a Licensed Establishment.
ABLE BC Members can access complimentary compliance resources through the ABLE BC Member Portal, including sample due diligence policies, signage, and educational materials related to MAP inspections and responsible service practices.
For additional support with policies, procedures, or legal guidance, members are encouraged to connect with the ABLE BC team and expert network.
If you have questions about the Minors as Agents Program, please contact the LCRB directly at LCRB.CandE.Admin@gov.bc.ca.
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Liquor Delivery Times During World Cup |
With Vancouver set to take centre stage as a Host City for the World Cup 26, hospitality businesses across the region have a major opportunity ahead — and an important deadline to prepare for. Liquor Delivery Times - Will Your Business Be Impacted?
In a collaborative effort between ABLE BC and BC Liquor Distribution Branch (BCLBD), we are reaching out to members and liquor hospitality operators in BC to help coordinate liquor delivery times for businesses that may be impacted by event-related road closures and events. Access the Community Activation Playbook (includes road closure info) HERE.
View the Match Day Schedule HERE.
If your business anticipates any challenges receiving deliveries, please email bo@ablebc.ca with your licence name, address, and your usual delivery days and times. |
New World Cup Bylaws Now in Effect in Vancouver |
New temporary bylaws tied to the FIFA Men’s World Cup officially came into effect in Vancouver on May 13 and will remain in place through July 20, 2026.
The changes are intended to support tournament operations and prepare the city for an estimated 350,000 visitors attending matches and events connected to the World Cup. Under the new bylaw, the City of Vancouver has expanded authority around advertising, street vending, busking, noise, graffiti removal, and management of public spaces within designated event zones — primarily within a two-kilometre radius of BC Place and Hastings Park. Key changes include: - Relaxed rules for temporary event infrastructure, signage, and fan zones
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New restrictions on street vending, busking, and unauthorized advertising
- Faster removal of non-approved commercial signage
- Extended noise allowances to support broadcasts and event operations
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Potential adjustments to truck routes and downtown deliveries for security and logistics purposes
Most violations may result in fines ranging from $250 to $1,000, with enforcement shared between the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Police Department. The City says the measures are necessary to host one of the world’s largest sporting events, while critics have raised concerns about the scope of FIFA’s influence and the impact on local residents and businesses. |
Summer 2026 Issue of the Quarterly Pour is Out |
Featured articles in this issue:
The Quarterly Pour is the official publication of ABLE BC.
Advertise with ABLE BC
The Quarterly Pour is the BC liquor industry’s source of trends and leading-edge news. The publication is the official magazine of ABLE BC, distributed quarterly to every licensee in the province.
For advertising opportunities in The Quarterly Pour, as well as the ABLE BC newsletter and website, download the 2026 Media Kit from EMC Publications. Contact Joyce Hayne, EMC Publications, at 604-574-4577or joyce@emcmarketing.com to book in now! |
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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. |
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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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Reminder: Minimum Wage Increase on June 1 |
Earlier this year, the Government of British Columbia announced that the province’s general minimum wage will increase to $18.25 per hour effective June 1, 2026.
This increase is part of an automatic annual adjustment established under the Employment Standards Act. Since 2024, minimum wage increases in B.C. have been tied to the annual average change in the province’s Consumer Price Index (CPI). For 2026, the CPI increase was slightly over 2.1%, with the final wage rounded to the nearest nickel. Learn More -
Members can review the official announcement from the Ministry of Labour
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Additional information about minimum wage rules is available through the Employment Standards Branch
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If you have questions about how the minimum wage applies in specific situations, you can contact the Employment Standards Branch directly
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ABLE BC will continue to keep members informed about labour policy changes that may impact hospitality and liquor-licensed businesses across the province.
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Reminder: Pay Transparency Requirements in BC |
ABLE BC is reminding members about ongoing obligations under BC’s Pay Transparency Act, which came into effect on May 11, 2023, and introduced new requirements for provincially regulated employers across the province.
As of November 1, 2023, all public job postings in British Columbia must include either the expected pay or a pay range for the position. The legislation was introduced as part of the province’s efforts to help address gender-based pay inequities and promote fairness and transparency in the workplace. Under the Pay Transparency Act, employers must comply with several key requirements, including: Job Posting Requirements All publicly advertised job postings must clearly include the expected salary or wage range for the role. This requirement applies to all provincially regulated employers in BC.
Restrictions on Pay History Questions Employers are prohibited from asking job applicants about compensation earned from previous employers. The goal is to help prevent historical wage disparities from continuing throughout a person’s career. Protection from Employer Reprisal
The legislation also protects employees who engage in conversations about pay transparency. Employers cannot dismiss, discipline, demote, suspend, harass, or otherwise retaliate against employees who: - Ask about their pay
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Share pay information with coworkers or job applicants
- Ask about their employer’s pay transparency report
Annual Pay Transparency Reporting
Certain employers are also required to submit annual pay transparency reports by November 1 each year. These reports are being phased in based on employer size and are intended to increase accountability and awareness around workplace pay gaps.
Members are encouraged to review their hiring practices, job postings, and workplace policies to ensure they remain compliant with the legislation.
More information about the Pay Transparency Act can be found on the Province of British Columbia Pay Transparency Information Page. |
Join ABLE BC at the Tequila and Agave Festival: May 30 |
ABLE BC has partnered with the Tequila and Agave Festival to bring hospitality and industry professionals together for an unforgettable evening of networking, education, and connection in the vibrant world of agave spirits. Join fellow operators, bartenders, buyers, suppliers, and beverage leaders on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM at the Croatian Cultural Centre in Vancouver, BC, for an exclusive Trade Tasting experience designed specifically for industry insiders.
This curated tasting session offers attendees the opportunity to explore an exceptional lineup of premium tequilas and agave spirits while engaging directly with producers, brand representatives, and peers from across the hospitality community. Whether you are looking to deepen your product knowledge, discover emerging brands, exchange ideas, or strengthen professional relationships, this event creates the perfect environment for meaningful conversations and valuable industry connections.
Guests will enjoy exclusive trade access to a carefully selected portfolio of agave spirits, paired with a variety of small bites crafted to complement the tasting experience. The evening also includes access to the Agave Celebration from 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM, offering even more opportunities to continue conversations and connect with colleagues in a lively atmosphere. For hospitality professionals looking to expand their expertise, build relationships, and stay connected to industry trends, this is a must-attend event. Purchase tickets here.
ABLE BC members receive 20% off ticket prices. Please email comms@ablebc.ca for the promo code. |
BC Hospitality Foundation: A Night to Remember |
Join British Columbia’s hospitality community for an extraordinary evening celebrating the 20th anniversary of the BC Hospitality Foundation. On July 22, 2026, industry leaders, celebrated chefs, and passionate supporters will gather for an unforgettable culinary fundraiser benefiting the people who make hospitality possible.
This milestone event aims to raise $100,000 to ensure the BC Hospitality Foundation can continue providing financial assistance to hospitality workers facing crisis and hardship across the province.
Together, we celebrate the past and invest in the future of hospitality. |
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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: BC Cannabis Secretariat Shifts to Ministry of Agriculture and Food |
The BC government’s Cannabis Secretariat has officially transitioned into a new department called the Cannabis Business & Governance Unit - Market Diversification and Growth Branch within the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. The move reflects the province’s evolving approach to cannabis, with an increased focus on economic development, industry growth, innovation, and market expansion.
ABLE BC's Bo Chen comments:
"This shift is encouraging and it signals progression for our industry to be recognized as a key contributing sector that helps drives economic development in BC. ABLE BC commends the efforts of our partners from the BC Cannabis Secretariat and look forward to collaborating further with them in their new roles."
The province has recently introduced several initiatives to support the legal cannabis sector, including extending Buy BC Partnership Program and BC Agriculture and Food Export Program eligibility to cannabis producers, as well as allowing cannabis growers access to the On-Farm Technology Adoption Program.
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go2HR on Tap: New & Free - Health & Safety Team Huddles for Your Staff |
Keeping safety top of mind in fast-paced Tourism & Hospitality workplaces is not always easy. Between busy shifts, changing priorities, and operational pressures, finding time for meaningful safety conversations can be a challenge. That’s where go2HR’s new Team Huddles service comes in. Delivered virtually by go2HR’s Health & Safety specialists, Team Huddles bring ready-to-go safety talks directly to your staff. These 15–30-minute sessions are designed to reinforce safe work practices, encourage open conversations about workplace safety, and help teams stay focused on working safely without creating extra work for employers.
The sessions fit easily into existing team meetings or pre-shift briefings and cover practical topics relevant to Tourism & Hospitality workplaces, including team roles in workplace safety, staying safe under pressure, and working safely in hot environments. For workplaces in select locations, in-person Team Huddles may also be available. By making safety conversations more accessible and consistent, Team Huddles help build stronger awareness, shared accountability, and safer workplace cultures across the industry!
Book a Team Huddle Today |
Top: ABLE BC Members & Partners catching up during KIND Gardens in downtown Vancouver
Below Left: Bo Chen visiting ABLE BC's Vice President Poma Dhaliwal @ Jolly Miller Pub
Below Right: ABLE BC checking out Bagheera during the North America’s 50 Best Bars events in Vancouver
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Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars Check out these upcoming events: |
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