Tariff update, farewell to Ann, SPARK 2025 highlights, and more ----------------------------------------------- |
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Liquor Industry Update:
March 6, 2025 |
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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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Thank You for Attending SPARK 2025!
Thank you to everyone who attended SPARK 2025: BC's Liquor & Cannabis Conference!
The ABLE BC team (Jeff Guignard, Ann Brydle, Bo Chen, and Jesse Sidhu) worked hard to bring together members and industry colleagues from hospitality, liquor retail, and cannabis retail for a day of advocacy, learning, and connection. We are incredibly proud of this successful event! SPARK 2025 wouldn't have been possible without the support of our members, our partners, inspiring speakers, and most importantly our generous sponsors.
We look forward to sharing more details and photos with delegates in the coming weeks. |
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Thank You to Our Sponsors |
Did you know ABLE BC is celebrating 50 years of advocacy for the private liquor and cannabis industries this year? Click below to learn more and help us celebrate! |
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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. |
| 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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Response to US Tariffs As we come to terms with the reality of the trade war with the US, we expect to see details and information shared fast and furious. While we can't answer every question you have right away, rest assured we are working to get you answers as quickly as possible. BC's response is in line with other provinces, including Alberta, Quebec, and Ontario, who are pulling some, or all, US liquor products from shelves.
Here's what you need to know: - Liquor Distribution Wholesale (LDB) has halted the importation of US liquor products manufactured in 'red' states.
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Red states includes Kentucky, as the legislature is red, despite having a 'blue' governor.
- Purchase orders placed prior to March 4, 2025, are not impacted.
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Current inventory of US liquor products manufactured in red states will be available for purchase by licensees (from LDB Wholesale and third-party warehouses) until inventory sells out.
- BC Liquor Stores (BCL) are pulling liquor products from red states off their shelves today.
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Hospitality customers serviced by BCL can continue to purchase these products, while inventory lasts, even if they have been removed from BCL shelves for other customers.
- US liquor products from non-red states will have the federal 25% tariff applied.
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LDB Wholesale shared the following memo: The BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) is taking action in support of the provincial and federal government response to the U.S. tariffs enacted on March 4, 2025. Following the Government of B.C.’s directive announced on March 4, 2025, effective immediately, the LDB is halting the importation of U.S.-made liquor products manufactured in red states. BCLIQUOR (BCL) stores are immediately halting the retail sale and removing from store shelves all U.S.-made liquor products manufactured in these states. These impacted products will continue to be available for purchase through LDB wholesale distribution channels until existing inventory in British Columbia sells through. This means private liquor stores, restaurants, bars and pubs will continue to be able to order impacted U.S.-made liquor products from existing inventory already in the province, while it lasts, including inventory in third-party warehouse. U.S.-made liquor products from non-red states will be unaffected at this time and will continue to be imported and sold by the LDB. However, as announced by the federal government on March 3, 2025, Canada will be applying a Tariff Surtax of 25 per cent on liquor products of U.S. origin. The LDB is reviewing Canada Border Service Agency guidelines and wholesale pricing updates to reflect the tariffs on impacted products will be communicated once details are confirmed.
A list of impacted U.S.-made liquor products manufactured in red states is available on the LDB Wholesale Operations website here. A list of Canadian-made liquor products is also available here.
Please share this notice with your membership and encourage them to visit the LDB Wholesale Operations website for the latest updates. Thank you for understanding the need to support a united front in response to the U.S. tariffs. |
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BC Budget 2025
The provincial government has released Budget 2025: Standing Strong for BC.
We are deeply concerned about projected deficits, the reliance on significant debts, and a lack of support for the business community. However, we recognize that BC is facing great uncertainty and instability in the face face of US tariffs.
It is encouraging to see the province invest in sectors like arts and tourism, as these industries do help hospitality and retail businesses thrive.
“With uncertainty on the horizon, it is prudent to protect the essentials and prepare for what comes next by investing in our greatest resource, the people of British Columbia,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Finance. “While our economy is built to withstand the threat of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs relatively better than most other provinces, the impact would still be significant. Our budget prepares us to carefully navigate these uncharted waters so we can put people first and support businesses as we build a stronger, more self-sufficient future.”
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Farewell to Ann Brydle, ABLE BC's Senior Communications Manager |
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I am sharing the bittersweet news that Ann Brydle, ABLE BC's Senior Communications Manager, is moving on from ABLE BC today.
Many of you know that Ann has been a vital part of our organization for the past three years. And while I am sad to see her go, I am incredibly proud of what she achieved during her tenure. I will always be grateful for the passion, professionalism, and expertise she brought to ABLE BC.
Whether supporting businesses through the 2022 BCGEU strike, developing new and informative member resources, introducing a new Member Portal and member management system, or improving ABLE BC's email and social media communications, Ann made a profound difference for our members and our industry. |
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I encourage you to connect with Ann to say goodbye and wish her well on her next adventure. You can reach her at ann@ablebc.ca until March 6th.
- Jeff Guignard, Executive Director ABLE BC is Hiring!
With Ann's departure, ABLE BC is seeking a Communications Coordinator to take over our communications needs. We are on the hunt for a detail-oriented individual with excellent verbal and written communication skills, an interest in liquor and cannabis policy, and a passion for helping liquor and cannabis licensees thrive. |
Introducing New Associate Membership Tiers
ABLE BC's Manager of Membership & Events, Jesse Sidhu, has re-vamped our associate membership offerings. The new tiers bring more value to suppliers and service providers of BC's liquor and cannabis industries, and amp up the benefits and perks available to ABLE BC liquor and cannabis licensee members. ABLE BC Associates can now choose from one of three membership tiers that best fit their business needs and goals: |
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GVBOT: US Tariffs Impact on BC Businesses Survey
The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has shared a survey to gauge the impact of US tariffs on BC businesses. Read their message below:
President Trump has proposed 25% tariffs on all Canadian imports, with a 10% carve-out for energy. These tariffs, expected to come into effect on March 4th, 2025, would be damaging for the Canadian and provincial economy. The B.C. government estimates that in President Trump’s tariffs scenario, B.C. could see a cumulative loss of $69 billion in economic activity between 2025 and 2028. To help us advocate for you, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade wants to hear from you about how these tariffs will impact your business. Please fill out the survey below to let us know. If you have any questions about the survey, please contact advocacy@boardoftrade.com |
LDB Policy Review: Dealcoholized Product Distribution
The Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) has shared the following memo:
LDB Wholesale Operations would like to advise vendors and wholesale customers that following a recent policy review, we will be ceasing the sale and distribution of dealcoholized products in which the alcohol content is less than one per cent.
Please note that dealcoholized products listed by BCLIQUOR stores (BCL) can be registered with LDB Wholesale in order to obtain a SKU. Dealcoholized products not sold through the BCL do not require an LDB SKU.
In alignment with the LDB Wholesale Registration Policy, dealcoholized SKUs will be removed from Web Store by May 16, 2025, and wholesale customers who would like to purchase dealcoholized products are encouraged to contact the vendor directly.
For more information, please review the policy for dealcoholized products detailed in section 4.8 of the LDB Wholesale Registration Policy which is available on the LDB Wholesale Operations website. |
AGLC Announces Changes to Liquor Markup
The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) has announced changes to their liquor markup rate schedule, introducing an additional markup on high-value wine effective April 1, 2025. In addition to flat markup rates, "wine products registered with AGLC at reference Invoice Price greater than $15.00/L are also subject to supplementary markup based on a percentage of the value above this reference invoice price."
This will be introduced in a phased approach where: -
a 5 per cent rate applies to the AGLC invoice price greater than $15 per litre and not exceeding $20 per litre,
- a 10 per cent rate applies on the invoice price greater than $20 per litre and not exceeding $25 per litre, and
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a 15 per cent rate applies on the remaining invoice price greater than $25 per litre.
Mark Hicken noted in his recent article on the ALGC changes, "The new system will create end-consumer price increases...which are more significant as the value of the wine increases. Any value (supplier cost) above $18.75 per bottle will be ‘taxed’ at 15% so the largest increases will occur for expensive wines (above approx. $30 retail). Effectively, Alberta has now introduced a new hidden ‘tax’ of 15% on expensive wine."
This change could lead to a simplified path towards interprovincial shipping and could positively impact interprovincial retailing.
We will provide further details as they are available. Please contact jeff@ablebc.ca if you have questions. |
Victoria's First-Ever Cocktail Week - Don't Miss Out!
For the first time, Victoria Cocktail Week is bringing bars, distilleries, and industry professionals together for a week-long celebration of cocktails, creativity, and craft. From April 13–20, 2025, experience an exciting lineup of events showcasing the best of Victoria’s cocktail scene. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just love a well-made drink, this is your chance to learn, taste, and experience something unforgettable.
What’s Happening: - Masterclasses & Tastings – Get hands-on with expert-led sessions exploring spirits, techniques, and cocktail trends.
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Exclusive Pop-Ups & Guest Shifts – One-night-only events featuring special menus, collaborations, and top bartenders.
- Signature Cocktail Events – From tasting dinners to themed nights, there’s something for every craft beverage lover.
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Limited-Capacity Gatherings – Many events have small guest lists to keep them intimate—grab your spot early!
Why You Need to Be There: -
Experience Victoria’s cocktail culture like never before
- Meet the city’s top bartenders, distillers, and industry pros
- Sip on exclusive, event-only cocktails you won’t find anywhere else
Tickets are on sale now, and with so many one-night-only events, you won’t want to wait! |
Share Your Thoughts on Proposed Changes to Vancouver's Liquor Serving Hours
ABLE BC is working with industry partner associations and the City of Vancouver to change liquor serving hours for bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants in Vancouver.
Currently, the City’s regulation on the latest closing times allowed for bars, pubs and nightclubs range from 1 am to 3 am depending on location and day of the week. Restaurants that are licensed to serve alcohol can do so until 1 am on weeknights and until 2 am on weekends. Proposed changes would allow: -
All bars, pubs and nightclubs in Downtown to apply to stay open until 3 am every night of the week. These hours are currently permitted in some areas Downtown.
- All restaurants in Vancouver that are licensed to serve alcohol to apply to serve until 2 am every night of the week.
If proposed changes are approved, businesses wanting to extend their hours would be required to follow the standard process of applying for approval from the Province and the City.
The City of Vancouver is gathering feedback from Vancouver business owners and residents until March 9. |
Ask an Expert: Why Compliance is Your Secret Weapon
Pierre Bourbonnais, Co-Founder at SuperHR and trusted HR advisor to the ABLE BC team shares why compliance might just be your company's secret weapon.
Too many businesses treat compliance like a chore, a list of rules to skim through so regulators stay off their backs. But here’s the truth: Compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s the bedrock of every resilient, high-performing organization. The Engagement Crisis (and How Compliance Fixes It)
Let’s talk about Canada’s workplace problem. A 2024 ADP Research survey paints a sobering picture: Only 19% of Canadian workers consider themselves fully engaged in their jobs, down from 22% in 2023. Disengaged teams cost businesses millions in lost productivity, constant turnover, and recruitment Band-Aids. However, companies that bake compliance into their culture, rather than treating it as a checkbox, see radically different results.
Let’s cut to a common (and costly) oversight: shaky employment contracts. In Canada, if your termination clause isn’t airtight, you’re playing with fire. Without this crucial safeguard, employers could find themselves on the hook for common law severance payouts—amounts that dwarf statutory minimums.
The real power of compliance lies in its ability to create workplaces people actually want to be part of. When teams understand the rules of the game and trust leadership to enforce them fairly, engagement soars. That stability lets companies double down on mentorship, upskilling, and culture-building initiatives that competitors can’t replicate.
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The Bottom Line
Canada’s top employers aren’t just avoiding legal trouble. They’re using compliance as a springboard for loyalty, innovation, and market dominance. Because when your team knows you’ve got their back, they’ll fight to push the business forward. Is your business built on solid ground—or shifting sand? The answer could determine your next decade. |
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Interested in becoming an ABLE Expert? Contact jesse@ablebc.ca to learn more. |
Cannabis Corner:
CSU & RCMP Enforcement Actions on Illicit Cannabis Operations
The Community Safety Unit (CSU), which carries out compliance and enforcement under the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act (CCLA), is continuing work to address illicit cannabis operations in BC.
Recently, the CSU and RCMP have taken enforcement actions against illicit cannabis operations in Burnaby, North Vancouver, Vancouver, and Gibsons. We appreciate the province's continued enforcement efforts that support legal and responsible cannabis operators.
Research from the University of Montreal shows that illegal operators offering online sales commonly accept Interac e-transfer as payment. Licensed retailers can help combat illicit online sales by submitting complaints to the CSU and by improving their own eCommerce with help from Breadstack.
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go2HR on Tap: Preventing Musculoskeletal Injuries in BC's Hospitality Industry
go2HR is a regular contributor to the ABLE BC Liquor Industry Update newsletter, providing tips and guidance on current HR trends, new legislation, employee recruitment and retention, and more. To read the latest instalment, sign in to the member portal or sign up for the newsletter.
In BC, we refer to Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs) as Musculoskeletal Injuries (MSIs).
BC’s pub and bar industry thrives on great service, fast-paced work, and long hours. But repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and standing for extended periods can lead to Musculoskeletal Injuries (MSIs). These injuries develop gradually, affecting muscles, tendons, and nerves, and can result in pain, lost productivity, and higher costs for business owners. Why Should Pub and Bar Owners Care About MSIs? - Healthy Staff, Better Service – Employees free from pain can move efficiently, stay engaged, and provide top-tier customer experiences.
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Lower Costs – MSIs are among the leading causes of lost-time claims in Canada. Prevention reduces absenteeism, compensation claims, and turnover.
- Stronger Business Operations – A safer work environment leads to better morale, job satisfaction, and employee retention.
Recognizing the Early Signs of MSIs - Encourage staff to report discomfort early to prevent long-term injury. Watch for:
- Pain, stiffness, or swelling in wrists, shoulders, back, or legs
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Numbness or tingling in hands or arms
- Reduced grip strength or difficulty lifting trays, bottles, or kegs
- Persistent discomfort that worsens with repetitive tasks
How Pubs and Bars Can Prevent MSIs - Optimize Workstations – Ensure bartenders, servers, and kitchen staff have ergonomic setups to reduce strain.
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Provide Proper Tools – Lightweight trays, ergonomic bar tools, and slip-resistant mats can minimize injury risks.
- Encourage Breaks & Movement – Short, frequent breaks and job rotation help reduce strain and fatigue.
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Train & Educate Staff – Teach employees to recognize early MSI symptoms and use proper lifting and carrying techniques.
- Foster a Culture of Safety – Encourage open communication so employees feel comfortable reporting discomfort before it worsens.
Taking proactive steps to prevent MSIs builds a healthier, more resilient workforce—ensuring great service while reducing injury risks.
go2HR, the HR and health and safety association for the BC Tourism and Hospitality Industry, has a wealth of resources to support you. We invite you to connect with us to learn more about how you can support your employees with health and safety at safety@go2HR.ca.
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Out and About with ABLE BC A farewell message from Ann Brydle, ABLE BC's Senior Communications Manager:
After three amazing years with ABLE BC, the time has come for me to take on a new adventure. While I'm excited to take the next step in my career, I am sad to leave an organization that does amazing work and that introduced me to so many liquor and cannabis professionals who I am now fortunate enough to call friends. I will miss my team (Jeff, Bo, and Jesse) dearly, and I will always look back fondly on the achievements we made together.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to every ABLE BC member, partner, and colleague for making my tenure at ABLE an unforgettable experience. I welcome you all to stay connected with me on LinkedIn! |
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In case you missed it, ABLE BC appeared in the following media recently: -
March 6, Castanet: Okanagan residents can expect a blue state booze cost hike amid trade war
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March 3, CBC News: As Vancouver mulls extended drinking hours, hospitality industry says B.C. liquor laws still too strict
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February 21, CTV News: Extending Liquor Serving Hours in Vancouver
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February 18, 980 CKNW: The Jill Bennet Show on Vancouver liquor serving hours (1:49pm)
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February 13, 980 CKNW: The Jas Johal Show on aluminum tariffs (5:36pm)
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February 12, CTV News: Here are the interprovincial trade barriers that are costing Canadian consumers more money
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February 6, CBC: What's needed to revitalize the Granville Entertainment District?
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February 5, CTV News: Push to remove interprovincial trade barriers hits high gear
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February 3, Global News: US booze to return in BC, but industry remains shaken by Trump tariff near-miss
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February 2, CTV News Vancouver: Empty shelves at BC Liquor stores as American booze pulled in response to tariffs
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Save the Date: Upcoming Events and Webinars Check out these upcoming events: - WORTH Leadership Summit, Vancouver, March 11
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Victoria Cocktail Week, April 13-20
- Cowichan Valley Wines Trade Tasting, Victoria, April 19
- BCHA Summit, Vancouver, April 22-23
Cowichan Valley Wines Trade Tasting, Nanaimo, May 6 Cowichan Valley Wines Trade Tasting, Courtenay, May 13
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