ABLE BC Statement: BC Introduces New Licensee-to-Licensee Sales Pilot

Following BC's Ministry of Agriculture and Food’s announcement of a new three-year pilot program allowing eligible hospitality licensees to purchase alcohol directly from private liquor retailers, ABLE BC welcomes this progressive step toward modernizing British Columbia’s liquor policies and creating greater flexibility for the hospitality sector.

Beginning May 29, 2026, eligible bars, pubs, restaurants, lounges, and catering licensees will be permitted to purchase products directly from authorized private liquor retailers across BC as part of the province’s new trial running through June 1, 2029.

For our hospitality members, this change provides greater flexibility and expanded access to product selection. Establishments will now have the opportunity to source specialty and unique products carried by private liquor stores, helping businesses reinvigorate menus and offer British Columbians a broader range of cocktails, craft beverages, wines, and innovative drink options.

The new policy also introduces operational advantages for businesses managing inventory demands. During busy service periods or unexpected shortages, hospitality operators will have the ability to quickly restock products from any local liquor stores. This added flexibility will help businesses respond more efficiently during peak demand periods, including major tourism events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Private liquor retailers across the province stand ready to support their hospitality partners and local business communities. Many retailers take pride in curating specialty products and sharing expertise on emerging brands and beverage trends. This initiative creates stronger collaboration between hospitality businesses and private retailers while allowing retailers to gain direct feedback into evolving consumer preferences and industry trends.

The pilot program also presents new opportunities for brands, producers, and suppliers to introduce and test emerging products within the market. As consumer demand grows for new and innovative offerings, all sectors of BC's liquor supply chain — both public and private — stand to benefit.

ABLE BC views this initiative as a positive step forward for the long-term growth and modernization of BC's hospitality and liquor industries. Strengthening connections between local businesses while increasing flexibility and consumer choice helps support economic activity, job creation, and vibrant hospitality experiences throughout the province.

ABLE BC commends the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and government partners for their support for BC’s evolving hospitality landscape.

For more information on this policy change, please refer to the LCRB bulletin.

For questions, concerns, or media requests, please contact Bo Chen (Executive Director) at bo@ablebc.ca.