Just in time for the holidays: BC extends cap on food delivery fees

Dear ABLE BC members,

While many in industry are frustrated about new public health restrictions, today we received a glimmer of good news to end the year. British Columbia's government today extended the cap on food delivery fees until Dec. 31, 2022. The cap had been set to expire at the end of 2021.

The cap limits the total fees delivery companies can charge food establishments to 15 per cent, plus up to an additional five per cent for related fees (such as online ordering and processing).

You can read the full announcement here.

This is great news for our industry as more and more customers are opting for delivery options. ABLE BC is advocating that the cap be extended permanently, and we consider today's announcement a positive step in that direction.

LDB update on ongoing transportation disruptions

The BC Liquor Distribution Branch has shared the update below about ongoing transportation issues in BC:

We recognize the impacts of ongoing transportation disruptions on customers as they navigate the busy holiday period, and we thank them for their continued patience.

The Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) reopened today between Hope and Merritt to essential commercial traffic only and provides another route for carriers to transport products between our distribution centres and to deliver customer orders. While the reopening of this major highway will provide us with greater ability to transport shipments throughout the province, we expect congestion, along with limited carrier equipment availability and weather-related road conditions, such as snow, to contribute to ongoing delays.

While transportation disruptions are ongoing, we will continue to take steps to mitigate the impacts of these challenges on our customers and continue to work with our vendors and freight carriers to ensure shipments are delivered as quickly as possible.

This year has brought unprecedented challenges that have impacted all of our customers, and we thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we worked, and continue to work, to provide your members with the best service possible.

LDB Wholesale would like to wish you, your team, and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season and very happy New Year.