New proposed legislation could see booze delivered with meals in Manitoba

The Manitoba government introduced legislation that would amend The Liquor, Gaming, and Cannabis Control Act (LGCCA) to allow more options for consumers by allowing liquor to be sold with take-out and delivery meal service by licensed establishments, Crown Services Minister Jeff Wharton announced today.

“For several years, restaurant owners have expressed interest in selling wine, beer and single-serve beverages through food take-out or delivery service,” said Wharton.  “This is a win-win for businesses and customers as restaurants will now be able to expand their business and offer an additional service to customers.”

Liquor delivery and take-out orders would be linked to meal orders and offered by licensed establishments whose primary business is food, such as restaurants.  Liquor pricing will be the same as in-dining service menu prices, which will link wine and beer retail to the licensees’ meal service.

The amendment also considers social responsibility in serving alcohol, drivers delivering alcoholic beverages will be required to be 18 years of age or older, be certified by the LGCA’s Smart Choices responsible sales and service program, and conduct mandatory identification checks.

Several private wine stores have indicated they see this as an opportunity to sell more wine to their corporate restaurant customers, noted Wharton, which will also support their economic viability.

The proposed legislation would also amend The Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation Act to remove the current reference to ‘beer’ under the distributor section, which limits distribution for private distributors, and replaces it with ‘beverage alcohol categories’.  This will allow third parties to dispense a wider variety of product to licensed vendors including private wine stores and hotel beer vendors by agreement with Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries.

Wharton noted this is another step to reduce red tape and to provide more choice and convenience for the consumer and greater opportunities and flexibility for businesses.

(Province of Manitoba News Release)