URGENT UPDATE: New Year’s Eve liquor sales must end by 8 p.m.

Dear ABLE BC Members and Industry Colleagues,

This afternoon, BC’s Provincial Health Officer unexpectedly announced special restrictions on liquor sales for Dec. 31 only.

All alcohol sales on December 31—including both on-premise and liquor retail—must end by 8 p.m. On-premise consumption must end by 9 p.m. and cannot resume until 9 a.m. on January 1, 2021.

Premises that do not include full meal service must close no later than 9 p.m. You may remain open beyond 9 p.m. for food service only.

I am profoundly disappointed and frustrated that this order was issued at the last minute and without industry consultation. I know many of you have booked reservations, brought in extra food and inventory for a special menu, scheduled staff, and that this order will have serious financial consequences.

Rest assured we have conveyed our frustrations to government bluntly and are currently raising our concerns in media.

If you have any additional questions, you can reach me directly at jeff@ablebc.ca.