Liquor Industry Update: October 27, 2022
Dear ABLE BC Members and Industry Colleagues,
Here's what you’ll find in today’s update:
Place your NSWP Holiday Orders Now
Resumption of LDB Wholesale Distribution
Direct Tap to be Acquired by ContainerWorld
Congratulations to Municipal Governments
Credit Card Surcharges
Vancouver Summer Patio Permits Expire October 31
SPARK: BC Hotel and Liquor Conference, Presented by ABLE BC & BCHA
Renewal Season is Here!
Small Business BC Work Accessibility Grant
Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars
Benefit Highlight: Global Payments
Out and About with ABLE BC!
Join ABLE BC Today!
Find all past updates here.
Place your NSWP Holiday Orders Now
With non-stocked wholesale products (NSWP) currently experiencing a four-week delay, it is imperative you place orders for these products now if you want to receive them before the holidays.
We are meeting with LDB regularly to better understand the current backlog of orders at warehouses. We’re also sharing your concerns and frustrations about the difficulty of properly managing your businesses with erratic deliveries.
The challenges of catching up on orders from the BCGEU strike while record high volumes continue are staggering. The LDB is doing everything they can to get product flowing quickly and efficiently, and we greatly appreciate their efforts and frequent communication.
While the LDB is making the best estimate on NSWP delivery timelines as they can, we believe these products are likely to be delayed even further than four weeks.
With current delays in LDB deliveries and likely disruptions through the busy holiday season, whether due to weather or high order volumes, it is possible that orders placed with the intention of stocking shelves and displays before Christmas will arrive near the end of December or early January. There is a possibility of having large volumes of product tying up floor space and capital in the slow season, so please place your orders with this in mind. We trust that ABLE BC members will make the best decisions for their businesses.
If you have questions or concerns about LDB deliveries, please reach out to jeff@ablebc.ca.
Resumption of LDB Wholesale Distribution
The Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) distribution centres and Wholesale Customer Centres (WCC) have completed all orders scheduled to ship prior to October 19. You will be notified when your order has been shipped.
We are grateful to LDB and WCC for working additional shifts and overtime to catch up on the high volume of orders. We understand how challenging it is to deal with orders and deliveries right now and your continued patience and understanding is appreciated.
LDB remains one week behind due to a continuation of higher than predicted volume. Due to high order volumes and the resumption of seasonal promotions, LDB estimates it will take another two weeks before service levels return to normal.
Delivery windows and ETAs remain unavailable. We understand how frustrating and challenging it is to run your businesses with low inventories and little information about when orders will arrive.
We assure you that the LDB warehouses are doing their best to get products back into your businesses. Your flexibility and understanding that deliveries may arrive outside regular delivery windows is greatly appreciated. We ask that you remain polite and professional with LDB and Wholesale Customer Centre (WCC) employees as they navigate current delivery challenges.
The WCC will notify customers once an order has been shipped from the distribution centre. LDB kindly asks that customers do not contact the distribution centres, please direct all inquiries to WCC at wholesalehelp@bcldb.com or 604-775-0681 or 1-888-775-0681.
Non-stocked wholesale products (spec products) are being shipped but will continue to experience delays. The order-to-ship date timeline for product stores in BC is currently taking up to four weeks. Please note that this does not include transportation time as it varies by customer and geographic location.
We continue to meet with LDB frequently to pass along industry needs and feedback and ensure that orders are shipped efficiently and fairly.
The distribution centre is working closely with third-party warehouses to incorporate NSWP products in an effective and efficient manner while balancing inventory in the distribution centres.
The cancellation period has been extended to ensure customers with outstanding NSWP orders receive their product.
Click here to read a memo from LDB.
We will offer further updates as they are available.
Direct Tap to be Acquired by ContainerWorld
Earlier this week it was announced that Direct Tap has been acquired by ContainerWorld. The acquisition is set to officially take place on or before October 31st, 2022.
No operational changes to the business are expected at this time. The transition period will take place over 90 days, during which time all Direct Tap operations will be absorbed by ContainerWorld.
Click here to read the announcement from Direct Tap.
Congratulations to Municipal Governments
On October 15, British Columbians all over the province went to the polls to elect new municipal governments. We offer our sincerest congratulations to all candidates who stood for office and participated in our democratic process. We also thank all outgoing Mayors and Councillors for their dedicated service, particularly during the historic challenges of the pandemic period. Regardless of who you voted for, it is undeniable that it takes tremendous time, energy, commitment, and courage to put one’s name on a ballot and lawn sign.
Given how deeply municipal government’s impact your businesses, we have already begun connecting with new mayors and councillors throughout BC to ensure they understand our industry’s local economic impact, the thousands of jobs we create, and the need for sensible regulations as we recover from the pandemic. In Vancouver for example, we worked throughout the campaign to inform candidates of our industry’s priorities and to build relationships for the future. Because of this work, we are confident Vancouver’s new Mayor and Council will be looking to act quickly to further support Vancouver’s liquor and hospitality industries.
Members can expect further updates in the coming weeks and months.
Credit Card Surcharges
As you are already aware, as of October 6, 2022, businesses in Canada are permitted to pass along interchange fees—i.e. the fees you are charged to process credit card transactions—to customers in the form of a surcharge.
Interchange fees are set by credit card providers such as Visa and MasterCard and charged to businesses for all credit card transactions. Until last week, businesses had to absorb the cost of these fees. Now businesses are permitted to recoup this lost revenue by surcharging customers up to 2.4% on credit card transactions.
Through discussions with our Board of Directors, LP and LRS committees, and other industry associations, we have found that most businesses will not be surcharging customers to cover interchange fees. At this time, LDB and BC Liquor Stores do not have plans to surcharge their customers. We will provide updates if this changes.
Whether you plan to pass along surcharges or not, we trust that members will make the choice that is best for their business.
Should you choose to surcharge your customers, you are required to provide 30 days notice to credit card providers. The amount you can surcharge is capped at 2.4% or the amount it costs you to accept a credit card, whichever is less. This amount must be tied to the decision to pay with a credit card rather than a product or service. Be sure to educate your customers and be clear that the surcharge is only for credit card transactions and that customers can avoid the additional fee by using debit or cash.
Click here and here to learn more.
Have you made plans to introduce a credit card surcharge? Contact us at info@ablebc.ca to let us know.
Vancouver Summer Patio Permits Expire October 31, 2022
2022 summer patio permits expire on October 31, 2022. If you are interested in operating your patio throughout the winter, there is a new permit option available.
What you need to know:
All businesses with a summer patio permit will receive emails throughout October reminding them that summer patio permits expire Monday, October 31, 2022 and patios must be removed by Tuesday, November 1, 2022.
Businesses are required to provide proof of patio removal to the City by Monday, October 31, 2022 by sending a photo(s) to street.activities@vancouver.ca.
After patios are confirmed as removed, City staff will coordinate the removal of traffic safety measures (i.e. concrete barriers, wheel stops and bollards).
Businesses interested in continuing to operate their curbside patio throughout the winter may be eligible to have it permitted as part of a one-year trial for 2022/23 curbside patios. Two permits will be issued (Nov 1 – Mar 31 and Apr 1 – Oct 31).
Choosing the right patio permit: Here’s a refresher on the patio permits available to businesses for both year-round and summer terms:
1. Year-round
Sidewalk patios only.
Term:
May 1 – April 30 (small sidewalk patio)
April 1 – March 31 (large sidewalk patio)
Requires a full review, but for large sidewalk patios it allows for an increase in seating and occupant load and offers more flexible design options such as decking.
Next step for businesses: Businesses with sidewalk patios that want to apply for a year-round patio permit should apply via the COV website:
2. Year-round (one year trial for existing curbside patios only)
Existing curbside patios only: Curbside patios with a 2022 summer patio permit may be eligible to remain in place for winter 2022/2023.
Term: November 1, 2022 to October 31, 2023 (one-year trial)
Issued as two permits (Nov 1-Mar 31 and Apr 1-Oct 31)
Year-round permit fees apply.
No changes to existing footprint or seating/occupant load are permitted.
Next step for businesses: Businesses that want to keep their existing summer curbside patio in place over the winter should contact street.activities@vancouver.ca to discuss eligibility.
3. Summer (simplified review)
Sidewalk and curbside patios
Term: April 1 – October 31
Offers a faster review, but has some design limitations (i.e. no increase to seating or occupant load and no decking).
Next step for businesses: Businesses that want to apply for a 2023 Summer (simplified review) patio permit should apply via the COV website:
4. Summer (regular review)
Sidewalk and curbside patios
Term: April 1 – October 31
Requires a full review but allows for an increase in seating and occupant load and offers more flexible design options, such as decking.
Next step for businesses: Businesses that want to apply for a 2023 Summer (regular review) patio permit should apply via the COV website:
More information is available at vancouver.ca/patio. If you have questions, please contact street.activities@vancouver.ca.
We also wanted to take a moment to thank you for your support of the Summer Patio Program, and for working alongside City staff this past spring and summer as we took additional steps to fine-tune the programs requirements. The Summer Patio Program will continue to evolve based on learnings, feedback from businesses, and our commitment to support business recovery efforts and outdoor dining. Your support and feedback will continue to be appreciated.
Have you Registered for SPARK?
Taking place November 15 on Granville Island, SPARK is a first-of-its-kind industry conference and can't miss event that will bring together BC's liquor and hospitality industries and stakeholders for a day of networking, education, and critical industry and economic updates.
Why should you attend SPARK?
ACCESS: direct access to government officials and presentations by key industry leaders and opinion experts across BC's hospitality sector.
VALUABLE SEMINARS: new seminar topics to help you adapt to the changing business world. Learn about consumer and shopper insights, supply chain issues, workforce, and much more!
NETWORKING: Meet and connect with accommodation, hospitality, and liquor operators from across BC - one of the chances you get to see all the people in one room!
PLUS: a member-exclusive joint lunch & workforce session at Dockside Restaurant and post-conference industry reception.
Travelling from out of town? Book your stay today!
Book with Granville Island Hotel with a rate of $199.00 using code: 221113BCHO. Space is limited!
Book with Sheraton Wall Centre Vancouver using their exclusive social rate
Renewal Season is Here!
ABLE BC memberships expired on August 31, 2022. All members have been sent an invoice.
ABLE BC is the only association fighting for BC’s private liquor industry, and we will continue the fight every day. We are only able to do this work because of the support of our members. Put simply, ABLE BC does not exist without your membership dues.
Thank you to everyone who has renewed already! Your support is critical to our industry’s success.
If you have not received your invoice or if you would like to discuss a payment plan, please contact Ann Brydle, Manager of Membership and Communication, at ann@ablebc.ca or 604-688-5560.
Small Business BC Work Accessibility Grant
Small Business BC’s Workplace Accessibility Grant provides direct supports to small business employers in BC by providing direct financial assistance towards creating an accessible work environment for persons with a disability(ies).
Eligible businesses can apply for funding for projects that improve workplace accessibility in the business, while addressing and removing barriers in your workplace for people with disabilities.
Reimbursement grants of up to $2,500 are available for eligible businesses that demonstrate how their project improves accessibility for persons with disabilities in the workplace
Access to funding is available through Small Business BC until April 30, 2023 on a first-come first-serve basis.
Click here to learn more and apply.
Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars
WORTH Association Empower Her in Victoria November 2, 2022
Join the WORTH Association and women of recreation, tourism, and hospitality on November 2nd for an evening of networking with an inspiring panel discussion in Victoria. WORTH's Empower Her event aims to connect a community of leaders who will expand their network and create meaningful relationships.Vancouver Island's top female tourism and hospitality leaders will share inspiring ideas with the intention of sparking dialogue about issues that impact women in the workplace. Their perspectives will inform, inspire, and empower women as we collectively identify ways to accelerate women to senior roles in the industry.
Hosted by: Deirdre Campbell, President tartanbond
Panellists:
Anita Voorsluys, Senior Program Advisor Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
Alexandra Wilson, Wine Club Manager Blue Grouse Estate Winery
Madone Pelan, General Manager Oak Bay Beach Hotel
Assetou Coulibaly, Project Manager Accent Inns
Robin Grist, Girl About Town
Date: November 2, 2022
Time: 5:30 pm- 9:00 pm
Location: Oak Bay Beach Hotel, 1175 Beach Drive, Victoria
Click Click here for details and ticket sales and here for Empower Her events in Vancouver, and Whistler.
BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference March 1-3, 2023
The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) and the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) are excited to announce the 2023 BC Tourism & Hospitality Conference will return March 1-3, 2023.
The 2023 conference will take place in Prince George and will bring an array of unique industry speakers and topics relating to the next chapter of tourism and hospitality within our province.
Click here to learn more.
BC Beer Con November 8 & 9, 2022
Attend BC Beer Con’s peer and industry led educational seminars organized into three tracks. Each day will have two concurrent seminar sessions to pick and choose the ones that are most relevant to you.
Date: November 8 & 9, 2022
Location: Anvil Centre, New Westminster
Click here to register.
Benefit Highlight: Global Payments
We are pleased to partner with Global Payments to bring you access to the broadest selection of payment technology and software solutions in Canada. Make use of this limited-time offer and start accepting payments anywhere—online, through mobile, in-store, and more, for less!
Special Limited Time Offer for ABLE BC members (sign up from September 1, 2022 to November 30, 2022):
Free terminal rental. Rent up to two (2) POS terminals at no additional cost for the first three (3) months.
Satisfaction guarantee. No set up fee (up to $200 savings). Try us risk-free for the first 90 days. If you are not satisfied, you can exit penalty-free.
Free cost analysis. No obligation cost analysis to identify potential savings opportunities for your business.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
Benefits for ABLE BC Members:
Streamlined payments: Acceptance for all major debit and credit payment types, including digital wallets
Robust suite of payment products: Includes the latest smart terminals and virtual terminals to offer you a choice of next-generation countertop, wireless, and online payment acceptance.
Online Ordering: Take your restaurant business wherever your customers are, in just a few clicks. Give your customers the ability to view your menu and place orders from any location through the web or smartphone.
Home Currency Pay at no cost: This dynamic currency conversion service is a must for hosting international travelers. Boost profits and customer satisfaction.
Fast access to funds: Deposited to your bank account as early as the next business day.
Comprehensive industry-leading support: The support you need, when you need it—24/7/365.
Contact Global Payments today!
EXPLORE BC Peach Farmhouse Ale
The BC Craft Brewers Guild has partnered with six BC breweries and Destination BC on a new collaboration brew for BC Craft Beer Month – the EXPLORE BC Peach Farmhouse Ale!
You can order this limited edition beer to sell at your LRS or LP business now. It will be available in 19.5-litre kegs, 50-litre kegs, and 6-packs, while supplies last. Contact john@ravensbrewing.com to order.
About the beer: BC peaches present a beautiful golden-orange colour, while the Lærdal Kveik yeast and BC hops provide fruity, floral flavours above a clean, rounded malt base that elevates the whole beer. Lastly, a pinch of sea salt makes this ale sparkle. This limited edition Peach Farmhouse Ale is a true representation of our province that pairs perfectly with BC’s natural beauty.
Participating Breweries:
Ravens Brewing
Whistle Buoy Brewing
Fox Mountain
Torchlight Brewing
Slackwater Brewing
Deadfall Brewing
Out and About with ABLE BC!
You might remember back in May and June our Executive Director, Jeff Guignard, took off on a motorcycle trip around BC hosting liquor industry meetings across the Thompson Okanagan and Kootenay Rockies areas. Near the end of the tour, we began to make plans for a September trip to meet with members in Northern BC, Whistler, and other parts of the province. Unfortunately, the BCGEU strike put a wrench in those plans and kept Jeff grounded in Vancouver.
With our SPARK conference coming up on November 15 (have you got your ticket yet?) and a busy holiday season close behind, we’ve put a pause on hosting liquor industry meetings throughout the province for now. But come springtime you can be sure to see us in a community near you! If you’d like to host a liquor industry meeting in the future, please reach out to Ann Brydle, Manager of Membership and Communication at ann@ablebc.ca to let us know!
Join ABLE BC Today!
ABLE BC is the leading liquor advocacy organization in the province. We have a proven track record of success fighting for the interests of Liquor Primary and Licensee Retail Store businesses. We are dedicated to helping our industry come out of the pandemic stronger than ever!
We can’t do our work without the support of our members. ABLE is a non-profit organization and we depend on membership fees to continue to lobby and fight for your needs.
ABLE BC members have access to several benefit programs that offer exclusive discounts and are designed to help your business thrive. In addition to our benefit programs, we offer expert advice, regular webinars, the annual Liquor Industry Conference, and many networking opportunities.