Liquor Industry Update: October 1, 2026

ABLE BC Industry Reception Photos, Reducing Red Tape, LDB Wholesale Updates, and More ----------------------------------------------- Liquor Industry Update: October 1, 2026 Dear ABLE BC Members & Industry Allies, Here's the latest news for the private liquor industry: Thank You! ABLE BC Industry Reception Has Your ABLE BC Membership Expired? Upcoming BC Provincial Election & ABLE BC Townhall ABLE BC Joins BC Craft Beer Conference & BC Beer Awards Reducing Red Tape: Engagement on Occupant Load Requirements New Online Service for LDB Wholesale Customer Requests LDB Single Bottle Pick Service Update Bartier Bros.: Wines Worth Pouring This Fall Canada Investment Summit: New Productivity Mega Deduction You're Invited: Help Shape the Future of BC's Tourism Workforce Wines of BC: Get Your Store Featured on WineBC.com BC Moves to Year-Round Pacific Time What you'll find in every newsletter: Member Spotlight: Pogue Mahone Pub Cannabis Corner: Cannabis Sales at Events go2HR on Tap: Supporting Mental Health Across the Industry Out and About with ABLE BC Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars PAST NEWSLETTERS NEWSLETTER SIGN UP Thank You for Attending the ABLE BC Industry Reception ABLE BC Sept 21 2026 Industry Reception Image Credit: Brad Kasselman Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Industry Reception last Monday at Donnellan’s Irish Pub! It was a great evening of connection, conversation and community, and we’re so glad you were there. We’d like to extend a special thank you to Minister of Agriculture and Food Lana Popham for joining us and taking the time to connect with members of BC’s liquor, hospitality and cannabis industries. We also appreciate the senior officials from the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) and Liquor & Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) who joined us and contributed to the evening’s conversations. ABLE BC Directors & Hon. Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture & Food Image Credit: Brad Kasselman A huge thank you to our event sponsors for helping make the evening possible and for continuing to support BC’s industry community: BC Lottery Corporation, Western Financial Group, ContainerWorld, Beer Canada, Wine Growers BC, and Brewers’ Recycled Container Collection Council. We’re grateful to Dirty Laundry Vineyard and Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards for generously providing sparkling wine for the reception. We also want to recognize the wonderful volunteers from Craft Greenery Cannabis for lending their time and energy to help make the event a success. And thank you to our hosts, IRL Group, for welcoming us to Donnellan’s Irish Pub and helping create such a great space for everyone to connect. Most importantly, thank you to our members and industry allies for showing up, sharing your perspectives and engaging in the conversations that matter to our industry. Your participation helps strengthen our collective voice and our ability to advocate for BC’s liquor, hospitality and cannabis businesses. ABLE BC Community Ambassador, Nicole McLaughlin & Executive Director, Bo Chen Image Credit: Brad Kasselman Event Survey If you attended the Industry Reception, we’d love to hear from you! Please take a few minutes to complete our short survey and share what you enjoyed, what worked well, and how we can continue to improve future events. Please share your feedback by October 6. Event Photos Want to relive the evening? Photos from the Industry Reception are now available. View the event photos. Please contact Nicole (membership@ablebc.ca) for the gallery password. We also encourage you to share your favourite photos on social media and tag ABLE BC and photographer Brad Kasselman to help give him a shoutout for capturing the evening! Stay connected with ABLE BC If you’re not currently a member, we’d love to have you join us. Membership is open to both liquor and cannabis businesses, and membership helps ensure your voice is represented as we advocate on the issues affecting our industries. For membership information or questions about your status, contact Nicole McLaughlin, ABLE BC Community Ambassador, at membership@ablebc.ca. Has Your ABLE BC Membership Expired? ABLE BC memberships expired on August 31, 2026. If you haven’t yet renewed, you can still reactivate your membership today. Your membership directly supports the advocacy work that ensures BC’s hospitality and private liquor retail sector has a strong, united voice with government. Membership dues enable ABLE BC to advocate on behalf of licensees, build relationships with decision-makers, monitor emerging issues, and ensure the liquor industry is represented alongside other well-established industries across British Columbia. By renewing, you’re helping strengthen our industry’s collective voice and supporting the ongoing work that protects and advances the interests of BC’s liquor sector. Renewal also restores your access to valuable member programs, resources, and benefits, including the ABLE BC Hospitality Insurance Program featured below. Without an active membership, you may no longer be eligible to access these exclusive benefits and services. It’s not too late to renew. Log in to the Member Portal and follow the renewal instructions on your dashboard. Questions or need assistance? Contact Nicole McLaughlin at membership@ablebc.ca for help accessing your account or completing your renewal. RENEW NOW Upcoming BC Provincial Election and ABLE BC Townhall With the upcoming BC Provincial Election, ABLE BC will keep members informed about key dates and resources ahead of voting day. Key election dates: October 3, 2026: Candidate nominations close October 16–21, 2026: Advance voting October 18, 2026: Deadline to request a vote-by-mail package online or by phone October 24, 2026: Final Voting Day November 18, 2026: Government Returns Day ABLE BC will also be hosting a virtual townhall for members ahead of the election, providing an opportunity to hear more about issues affecting BC’s liquor and hospitality industry. We’ll also be sharing an election toolkit with members to help you stay informed and engaged throughout the election period. Keep an eye on your inbox and ABLE BC communications for more details on the townhall and toolkit. For official election information, including voting options and important dates, visit Elections BC. ABLE BC Joins BC Craft Beer Conference and BC Beer Awards ABLE BC is proud to support the BC Craft Beer Conference on October 15-16 and BC Beer Awards on October 16 in New Westminster, bringing together breweries, industry professionals and beer enthusiasts from across the province to celebrate BC’s vibrant craft beer community. As part of our support, ABLE BC is sponsoring the Fruit & Flavoured Beer category at the BC Beer Awards, recognizing the creativity and innovation of breweries producing beers in this diverse and popular category. We’re also pleased to see other liquor retail stores supporting the awards, including JAKS, sponsor of the Lagers category, and Brewery Creek, sponsor of the Award Handle. The BC Craft Beer Conference offers an opportunity for members of the industry to connect, learn and share ideas, while the BC Beer Awards celebrate the people and products helping shape BC’s beer industry. Event Details BC Craft Brewers Conference October 15 and 16, 2026 Anvil Centre, New Westminster View the schedule and get tickets BC Beer Awards Friday, October 16, 2026 Anvil Centre, New Westminster Learn more about the BC Beer Awards RESOURCES 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. LEARN MORE 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.   SIGN UP ABLE BC Member Portal The Member Portal is your hub for all resources and benefits available to ABLE BC members. Contact membership@ablebc.ca if you need help logging in. LOG IN SUPPORT OUR ADVOCACY WORK, JOIN ABLE BC TODAY! Reducing Red Tape: Potential Changes to Occupant Load Requirements ABLE BC has been advocating for ways to reduce red tape and improve licensing processes for our on-premise and liquor primary members. A new provincial review could be a step toward making those processes more efficient. The Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) is seeking feedback on potential changes to occupant load and person capacity requirements for licensed establishments where liquor is consumed on site, including restaurants, bars, brewpubs and nightclubs. The discussion is part of an ongoing review by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB), which is looking at how local governments establish, apply and enforce occupant loads. One potential outcome is streamlining these processes, which could help reduce duplication and contribute to faster licensing timelines for businesses. This is an area ABLE BC has been advocating on, and we’ll continue to engage with government and stakeholders as the review moves forward. Have questions or feedback? We have a copy of the discussion paper available and want to hear from members. If you’d like to discuss the proposed changes, ask questions or share your feedback, email comms@ablebc.ca. We may also organize a virtual townhall for members depending on interest. Government engagement feedback closes December 31, 2026. Read the UBCM announcement and discussion details New Online Service Option for LDB Wholesale Customer Requests LDB Wholesale Operations has shared the following update on a new online service option for LDB Wholesale Customer requests. On October 19, the BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) Wholesale Customer Centre (WCC) will be introducing a new online option for submitting and tracking customer requests. Through the new ServiceNow portal, customer requests previously made via phone or email can also be made online, such as: Order submissions (in addition to Web Store) Payment-related inquiries Customer registration requests General inquiries Return claims (per existing LDB policy)What this means for WCC customers The ServiceNow portal will provide an additional way to connect with the WCC and offers several benefits, including: Online submission of requests Ability to track the status of your requests Automated notifications and updates Faster, more consistent service experience Access to self-service information and answers to common questions Existing support channels remain available The ServiceNow portal is being introduced as an additional option to make it easier and more convenient to submit and track certain requests. There will be no changes to accessing and ordering through Web Store, and customers may continue to contact the WCC by phone or email. Accessing the portal Registration information, including access instructions and user guides, will be emailed direct to customers when ServiceNow launches on October 19. LDB Single Bottle Pick Service Update LDB Wholesale Operations has shared the following update on single bottle pick service: We are pleased to share the LDB Wholesale Operations has completed its seasonal review of the single bottle pick service. The single bottle pick product selection has been refreshed and will continue to offer a selection of year-round spirits, champagnes, wines and liqueurs in 750ml and 1.14L volume format. The updated list of all single bottle pick products is posted on the LDB Wholesale Operations website here. The 10 per cent bottle pick rule – as applicable to specific customer types, and outlined in the WCC Order Handbook – will continue to apply.  The single bottle pick service selection balances efficient distribution centre operations with customer demand, allowing LDB Wholesale Operations to focus on providing uninterrupted service to our customers. Bartier Bros.: Wines Worth Pouring This Fall Wines Worth Pouring This Fall Bartier Bros. wines offer exceptional quality, strong value, and customer appeal. As the seasons change, so do the wines your customers reach for. Fall is the perfect time to introduce wines with a little more depth, while keeping the approachability and value that make them easy to enjoy. At Bartier Bros., we believe great wine should deliver exceptional quality without an exceptional price tag. Grown in Oliver, BC, our wines capture the character of the South Okanagan and are made to overdeliver—whether they're being poured by the glass, featured on a wine list, or picked up from the shelf. This fall, consider a lineup that takes customers from harvest dinners to holiday gatherings. Our Chardonnay is a natural choice for seasonal menus, Cabernet Franc shines alongside cooler-weather favourites, and our Rosé proves there's still a place for crisp, dry rosé well beyond summer. Featured Wines Chardonnay - Fall-ready and beautifully versatile SKU: 210211 Wholesale: $19.99 Cabernet Franc - Elegant, structured, and made for fall SKU: 993139 Wholesale: $23.11 Rosé - Dry, versatile, and ready for every season SKU: 35609 Wholesale: $15.36 per bottle To learn more or place an order, contact Jodi Bartier at wineclub@bartierbros.com. Sign up for winery updates and trade offers here: https://bit.ly/4dMTGqm This project is supported by the BC Government's Buy BC Partnership Program; delivered by MNP LLP with funding from the Government of British Columbia. Canada Investment Summit: New Productivity Mega Deduction The federal government has announced a proposed Productivity Mega Deduction that would allow businesses to immediately deduct the full cost of a much broader range of eligible capital investments in the year they become available for use. Currently, many business investments are deducted over several years through the Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) system. The proposed measure would make approximately two-thirds of investment in capital assets eligible for immediate expensing, up from about 15 per cent under existing measures. What could this mean for liquor businesses? For liquor retailers, manufacturers, and other liquor businesses planning investments in equipment, technology or other eligible capital assets, the change could mean receiving the associated tax deduction sooner. Businesses considering store equipment, technology upgrades, or other capital investments should review their plans with their accountant to determine whether the purchases qualify and how timing could affect their tax position. The government is proposing that the measure apply to most eligible depreciable property acquired on or after September 15, 2026. Certain assets, including some buildings, vehicles and other specified property, are excluded. What businesses should do now If you are planning a significant capital purchase: Review upcoming equipment and technology investments. Confirm whether the specific asset qualifies for immediate expensing. Discuss the timing of purchases with your accountant. Keep records of invoices, acquisition dates and when assets are put into use. The Productivity Mega Deduction is proposed legislation and is not yet finalized, so businesses should confirm the final rules once legislation is introduced and passed. This article is for general information only and is not tax or financial advice. Resources Ottawa's New 'Productivity Mega Deduction': A Small Business Guide to Writing Off Equipment, Vehicles, and Software in Year One Government of Canada introduces new Productivity Mega Deduction to boost Canada’s advantage as the most competitive G7 country for new business investment You're Invited: Help Shape the Future of BC's Tourism Workforce Tourism Industry Association of BC and post-secondary institutions across British Columbia are inviting tourism and hospitality industry leaders, business owners and operators to help shape the future of tourism education and workforce development. Regional roundtables will bring employers and educators together to identify skills and training gaps, strengthen connections between classrooms and workplaces, and ensure programs reflect the evolving needs of B.C.’s tourism sector. Industry members are encouraged to participate in one of the following sessions, all taking place from 1:00 to 3:00 pm: North Vancouver | October 26 – Capilano University Register/contact: karawalker@capilanou.ca Kelowna | October 29 – Okanagan College Register/contact: AWeighill@okanagan.bc.ca Nanaimo | November 10 – Vancouver Island University, Building 210, Room 275 Register/contact: jean-guy.robichaud@viu.ca An online participation option is also available for those unable to attend in person. Wines of BC: Get Your Store Featured on WineBC.com For years, Pour More BC has helped consumers discover restaurants that champion BC wine. This fall, we’re expanding the program to include Top BC Wine Stores. If your store has a strong BC wine selection, we are here to help you turn that into a competitive advantage. Sign up now to be featured on WineBC.com and in our fall Pour More BC campaign designed to boost BC wine sales. Participating retailers receive free promotion and become part of a province-wide network helping more consumers discover where to buy BC wine. Benefits for your wine shop: A dedicated listing on the new Top BC Wine Stores page coming soon Free promotion through paid digital advertising, social media, reels and other marketing initiatives funded by Buy BC SEO and GEO visibility helps your store show up in search engines, strengthening your footprint in AI-driven and voice search tools that rely on trusted, authoritative business listings Exposure to a wine-engaged audience who are already motivated to buy BC wine An ongoing relationship promoting foot-traffic via Pour More BC marketing Complimentary access to BC wine education through the Wines of BC Ambassador program to help your team confidently recommend and sell BC wine Recognition as a retailer supporting local wineries and grape farmers Best of all - it’s completely free to you! Sign your store up now to be included and help consumers discover where to shop for BC wine. BC Moves to Year-Round Pacific Time Following the elimination of twice-yearly time changes in March 2026, B.C. will now use Pacific Time (PCT) as the abbreviation for the province’s year-round time zone. The new designation provides consistency for businesses, organizations and individuals using the time zone in communications, operational systems and public-facing materials. On November 1, 2026, when clocks would traditionally be turned back one hour, B.C. clocks will remain unchanged. PCT replaces the previous seasonal use of Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) and Pacific Standard Time (PST). Read the official announcement from the Province HERE. 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. Member Spotlight: Pogue Mahone Pub Located in the heart of Brocklehurst, Pogue Mahone Irish Alehouse brings the traditions of an Irish pub to North Kamloops, with a relaxed sports-bar atmosphere and plenty of local character. Guests can enjoy Irish favourites alongside classic Canadian pub fare, including wings and burgers, with 12 taps of draught beer featuring a properly poured Guinness, plus a selection of spirits, ciders and coolers. There’s always something happening at Pogue’s, from Music Bingo and karaoke to live music, acoustic shows and a weekly jam night where local musicians can bring their own instruments. With big-screen TVs throughout the pub, it’s also a great spot to catch the game with friends. Whether you’re stopping in for a pint, a bite to eat, live music or a night of fun, Pogue Mahone offers a welcoming place to gather and enjoy the best of the local pub experience. LEARN MORE Cannabis Corner: Cannabis Sales at Events - Insights  As interest in cannabis at public-facing events continues to grow, Craft Greenery co-owner and ABLE BC Cannabis Committee Member Dennis Park says the response from attendees has been clear: the public is ready. Craft Greenery has participated in a number of public and private events this summer, including events with Public Disco, where attendees have shown strong interest in the ability to purchase cannabis through ecommerce and delivery. Dennis sees opportunities for cannabis businesses to create new experiences for event-goers while supporting event organizers and surrounding businesses. However, current provincial regulations do not permit licensed cannabis retailers to operate on-site retail booths or pop-up shops at events. While licensed retailers can deliver cannabis to event sites, Dennis believes a more seamless, compliant framework could create greater opportunities for both businesses and consumers. ABLE BC is advocating for that pathway. Since last summer, ABLE BC has been engaging with the LCRB and event organizers to explore potential policy changes that would allow cannabis retailers and producers to participate more meaningfully in BC’s events sector, while maintaining a focus on public safety and compliance. For cannabis businesses interested in this space, Dennis’s advice is to start building relationships with event organizers now: “Build trust.” Read the full article to learn more about Craft Greenery’s experience, current regulations, and ABLE BC’s advocacy work around cannabis sales at events. JOIN ABLE BC CANNABIS TODAY SIGN-UP FOR CANNABIS UPDATES go2HR on Tap: Supporting Mental Health Across the Industry October 10 is World Mental Health Day, a day to raise awareness of mental health and encourage conversations about wellbeing and support across BC's tourism and hospitality sector. The Mental Health Continuum is a simple visual tool that helps individuals recognize where they're at and notice changes over time. It also provides a straightforward way to start a conversation when a coworker may need support. This World Mental Health Day, use the Mental Health Continuum to spark honest conversations, catch the early signs, and help build stronger, more connected workplaces across the industry. Download the Mental Health Continuum Out & About with ABLE BC Above: Executive Director Bo Chen with IRL Group GM Tom Young, day after ABLE BC's Sept 21 Reception Below Left: ABLE BC Sept 21 Reception Volunteers, Rae & Bahar from Craft Greenery Cannabis Below Right: James Grass (Chef's Favourite) & Hon. Terry Yung, at ABLE BC Sept 21 Reception Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars Check out these upcoming events: IVSA Product Salon in Vancouver: October 6 BC Beer Conference in Vancouver: October 15-16 BC Beer Awards in Vancouver: October 16 BCRFA Hall of Fame in Vancouver: October 19 2026 Northern BC Tourism Summit in Prince George: October 20-22 Swirl Around BC Wine Expo in Vancouver: October 22 2027 BC Tourism Industry Conference in Victoria: February 24-26 BC Wine Industry Insight Conference in Penticton: March 2 2027 BCHA Summit in Vancouver: May 10-11 EVENTS Copyright © 2026 BC's Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC) 970 - 1050 West Pender Street, Vancouver, V6E 3S7 Canada unsubscribe or update your email preferences here