Alcohol sales expected to be a boost for sagging convenience store industry

Stores in Kingston and beyond began selling it today

Tuesday marked the start of beer, wine, cider, and ready-to-drink cocktail sales in corner stores in Kingston and across the province.

While many have raised concerns about easy access for people with drinking problems, and underage Ontarians, one group is welcoming the move. 

Adding booze to the stores is seen as a lifeline for struggling small businesses, many of which have faced a sharp decline in tobacco sales. 

Kenny Shim, president of the Ontario Convenience Store Association, says this new opportunity could help keep many stores afloat.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has already granted 4,200 licences, allowing stores across the province to start selling alcohol. 

Shim believes this could breathe new life into local businesses and give consumers more convenient options for buying their favorite drinks.

With the first licences now active, residents will begin to see alcoholic beverages available at local convenience stores, giving a much-needed boost to the industry while providing more choice to shoppers. 

Store owners have told KingstonDaily.ca that due to high demand, stock is limited at some stores and it could be a while before the full scope of products is available in all stores.