Register Today for ABLE BC Industry Reception, Meet our LRS Committee, BC Beer Awards, and More ----------------------------------------------- |
|
|
|
Liquor Industry Update: September 3, 2026 |
|
|
|
Dear ABLE BC Members & Industry Allies,
Here's the latest news for the private liquor industry:
Registration Open! ABLE BC Industry Reception on September 21 Has Your ABLE BC Membership Expired?
Meet ABLE BC’s LRS Committee - Summerland Strong: Support Summerland Wine & Beer
Connect Your Store with BC’s Hospitality Industry
Reminder: SEP Maximum Drink Prices Raised Wines of BC: Get Your Store Featured
BCHA: Fast Track Your Future is Back! - Fall 2026 Issue of the Quarterly Pour is Out
- Bartier Bros.: Wines Worth Pouring This Fall
Join us at BC Craft Brewers Conference and BC Beer Awards
What you'll find in every newsletter: - Member Spotlight: Black Swan Pub
-
Cannabis Corner: EPR Requirements for E-Cigarettes & Vapes
- go2HR on Tap: New SuperHost® Instructor Certification Program
- Out and About with ABLE BC
-
Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars
|
|
| |
|
Registration Open! ABLE BC Industry Reception on September 21 |
Join us on Monday, September 21, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Donnellan’s Irish Pub in Vancouver for an evening of networking, industry connection, and conversation.
Meet ABLE BC’s Board of Directors, Committees & Members, connect with fellow industry professionals, and learn more about ABLE BC’s recent advocacy achievements and upcoming priorities.
We’re also pleased to welcome Minister of Agriculture and Food Lana Popham, along with senior officials from the BC Liquor Distribution Branch and the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch. Enjoy delicious appetizers, drinks, live music, and meaningful conversations about the key issues shaping BC’s liquor, hospitality, and cannabis industries.
Complimentary Tickets for ABLE BC Members
Promotional codes for complimentary tickets are available exclusively to current ABLE BC members in good standing. The code has been sent to members by email. If you believe you should have received a code but haven’t, please reach out to us.
If your membership is due for renewal, has recently lapsed, or you’re interested in becoming a member, there’s still time to renew or join and access this benefit! Renew your membership or become an ABLE BC member here, or contact ABLE BC Community Ambassador Nicole McLaughlin at membership@ablebc.ca for assistance.
We look forward to raising a glass with you on September 21! |
|
|
|
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. |
Meet ABLE BC's LRS Committee |
ABLE BC’s LRS Committee brings together liquor retail members from businesses of different sizes, corporate structures, and regions across BC.
Chaired by ABLE BC Director Mike McKee of JAK’s Liquor, the committee works closely with ABLE BC staff and the Board of Directors to identify industry priorities, respond to policy changes, and help shape the organization’s government relations strategies. Meet the LRS Committee
The LRS Committee includes representatives from liquor retailers of different sizes, corporate structures, and regions across BC. Explore some of the businesses represented on the committee below—and meet committee members and ABLE BC’s Board of Directors at our Industry Reception on September 21.
|
Summerland Strong: Support Summerland, Choose Summerland Wine and Beer |
|
|
A simple way to show your love for Summerland? Choose a Summerland wine.
We’re proud to join the Wine Growers British Columbia, BC Restaurant & Foodservices Association (BCRFA), and Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive Association in encouraging restaurants, retailers and wine lovers across BC to get behind #SummerlandStrong.
A big thank you to ABLE BC members JAK's Beer Wine & Spirits, Marquis Wine Cellars, The Train Station Pub, Vessel Liquor, Cascadia Liquor Stores, Jolly Coachman Pub & Liquor Store, 14th Ave Liquor Store and Pub, Haney Hotel Beer & Wine Store, and Sailor Hagar's Brew Pub for getting on board and featuring Summerland wines. Your support matters.
Here are just a few examples of how these members are showing their support:
Marquis Wine Cellars' fundraiser raised $5820, which Marquis was proud to match for a total of $11,640 going back to the Okanagan.
JAK's Liquor is highlighting Summerland products via an easy to scan to QR code.
Cascadia Liquor is donating $2 for every bottle of Summerland/Peachland wine purchased from now through the end of September.
And this is bigger than one community. Summerland gives us a reason to celebrate BC wine, and we want that local pride to extend across the province.
Put BC wine on the list. Give it a place on the shelf. Pour it by the glass. Ask for it when you’re dining out. Share a bottle with friends. Every choice helps support the growers, winemakers and communities behind the wines we love. Another simple way to show your love for Summerland? Choose a Summerland craft beer.
Summerland is home to several local breweries, including Detonate Brewing Company and Giants Head Brewery.
Bars and retailers can help by giving Summerland beer a place on the menu, on tap and on the shelf. Beer lovers can pick up a local brew or ask for Summerland beer when dining out. Every pint and purchase supports the brewers, hospitality workers and community behind it.
Show your love for Summerland. Celebrate BC wine and beer.
|
|
|
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 membership@ablebc.ca if you need help logging in. |
|
|
|
Connect Your Store with BC's Hospitality Industry |
Join the BCRFA Private Liquor Directory as a Founding Retailer.
Licensee-to-licensee sales are creating new opportunities for BC restaurants, bars, and pubs to access specialty products, increase purchasing flexibility and build new relationships with private liquor retailers.
BCRFA, in partnership with ABLE BC, is helping make those connections happen. Become a Founding Retailer
For an exclusive ABLE BC member rate of $250, participating private liquor stores will receive five months of visibility through BCRFA and be featured in the new Private Liquor Directory - connecting your business with more than 5,000 hospitality operators across BC.
Learn more and sign-up here. |
Reminder: Special Event Permit Maximum Drink Prices Raised |
Effective August 24, 2026, the maximum cost (PST inclusive) per serving under a Special Event Permit (SEP) will be: -
$7.00 for beer, cider, or coolers
- $10.00 for wine or champagne
- $7.00 for spirits
Further information and a more detailed breakdown of the increase to the SEP maximum drink prices can be found in in Bulletin 26-04: Raising the Maximum Drink Prices for Special Event Permits. SEP maximum drink prices are designed to ensure that prices charged for liquor cover only the operating costs of serving and selling liquor. These operating costs include the cost of liquor, mixes, glasses, ice, and taxes. They do not include other event-related expenses such as hall rental, entertainment, security, or charges for single-use cups required by local governments.
Please note that maximum drink prices may be exceeded if the purpose of the event is to raise funds for a charitable purpose or if the special event has been designated by the General Manager as being of municipal, provincial, national, or international significance. Please contact LCRB Client Support Team at LCRBLiquor@gov.bc.ca or 1-866-209-2111 if you have any questions. |
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 September, 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 in the September launch, and help consumers discover where to shop for BC wine. |
BCHA: Fast Track Your Future is Back! |
We’re excited to share that a new season of Fast Track Your Future is here! New this year:
BCHA has created a special Partner Association member rate, making it easier for our members to access practical, industry-led professional development.
The 2026/27 season features 10 series covering leadership, financial skills, AI, human resources, communications, operations, and guest experience.
2026/27 Series Lineup -
Hospitality Financial Leadership (Level 2): Sept 16–Oct 28, 2026 | David Lund, The Hotel Financial Coach
- Leadership for Hospitality Professionals: Oct 6–Nov 10, 2026 | Theresa Ito, Blue Mountain Solutions
- AI & Automation in Action — sponsored by Mews: Oct 22–Nov 26, 2026 | Keith Daser & Jason Tate, Deliver Digital Inc.
-
Conflict Resolution & Workplace Communication — sponsored by Innfocus Photography: Nov 4–Dec 16, 2026 | Caroline Bagnall, Connect Hospitality Strategies Inc.
-
Human Resources Strategy for Hospitality — sponsored by VVS Global: Jan 20–Feb 24, 2027 | go2HR
- Communications & Media Relations for Hospitality: Jan 26–Mar 2, 2027 | Larissa Dundon, Founder, The Tea Communications
- Housekeeping Leadership & Operational Excellence — sponsored by Ecolab: Mar 3–Apr 7, 2027 | David McBean, Hotel Industry Leader & GM
-
Managing Profitable Food & Beverage Operations: Mar 9–Apr 13, 2027 | Caroline Bagnall, Connect Hospitality Strategies Inc.
-
Advanced Leadership for Hospitality Professionals (Level 2): Apr 14–May 26, 2027 | Theresa Ito, Blue Mountain Solutions
-
Human-Centered Hospitality: Creating Memorable Guest Experiences: Apr 20–Jun 1, 2027 | Sarah Webb & Daintry Van Cleave, Hotel Industry Leaders
Register for Fast Track Your Future. |
Fall 2026 Issue of the Quarterly Pour is Out |
The Fall 2026 issue of The Quarterly Pour is out! Featured articles in this issue:
The Quarterly Pour is the official publication of 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! |
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. |
Join us at BC Craft Brewers Conference and BC Beer Awards |
ABLE BC is excited to join BC’s brewing community at the BC Craft Brewers Conference, taking place October 15 and 16 at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster.
The two-day conference brings together brewery owners, operators, industry partners, and suppliers from across the province for educational sessions, industry insights, networking, and a tradeshow.
The conference concludes with the BC Beer Awards on Friday, October 16. Recognized as BC’s leading craft beer awards ceremony, the event honours outstanding brewing and community achievements from across the province. ABLE BC is proud to sponsor the Fruit Beer category at this year’s awards, celebrating the creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation of BC’s craft brewers.
If you’re attending the conference or awards, be sure to connect with the ABLE BC team and fellow members. We look forward to seeing you there and raising a glass to this year’s nominees and winners! 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 |
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: Black Swan Pub |
Nestled in the village of Shawnigan Lake on Vancouver Island, the Black Swan Pub and Liquor Store is a family-owned and operated business that has been part of the local community for two generations. Affectionately known by locals as the “Dark Swan,” this traditional English-style pub offers a warm, casual atmosphere where guests can enjoy great food, local hospitality, and a drink of their choice. With its welcoming, unpretentious character, it’s the kind of neighbourhood gathering place that keeps customers coming back time and time again. |
The Black Swan Pub is open seven days a week, with happy hour available daily from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Whether you’re a Shawnigan Lake local or visiting the area, stop by for a meal, a drink, and an authentic taste of Vancouver Island community spirit.
ABLE BC is proud to have Black Swan Pub and Liquor Store as a member and to spotlight their longstanding contribution to the Shawnigan Lake community. |
Cannabis Corner: Upcoming ERP Requirements in BC for E-Cigarettes and Vapes |
The BC government has expanded its Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, adding several new product categories to the provincial Recycling Regulation, including vapes, electronic cigarettes and other battery-containing products.
Under EPR, producers are responsible for managing the collection and recycling of regulated products at the end of their life. The expanded requirements apply to products sold across residential and non-residential sectors, including products sold online, by phone or by mail. Implementation will take place in stages beginning in 2027. For the new battery-containing product category, producers are required to submit an EPR plan by December 15, 2026, with programs required to be operational by October 1, 2027. Cannabis businesses that manufacture, distribute or sell products that may fall within the expanded categories are encouraged to review the new requirements and determine whether they have obligations under the regulation.
Learn more about BC’s EPR changes and review the explanatory notes. Want to strengthen cannabis retail advocacy in BC? Join ABLE BC's Cannabis Retail Membership to support industry advocacy, stay informed on regulatory developments, and help ensure the voice of independent cannabis retailers is heard by government and regulators. |
go2HR on Tap: New SuperHost® Instructor Certification Program Now Open |
As BC’s tourism and hospitality industry gears up for fall and winter, go2HR is inviting training professionals to become Certified SuperHost® Instructors.
The new self-paced certification program offers greater flexibility for busy professionals. Certification costs $395 CAD per instructor, with low licensing fees and the potential to turn a profit by the second workshop.
Certified instructors receive ready-to-use training materials and join a nationwide network committed to raising the standard of customer service.
Learn more about the certification process and apply to become a SuperHost® Instructor. |
Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars
Check out these upcoming events: |
|
|
|
