Statement on Expedited RTD Expansion in Grocery Stores

Over the past week, there has been much talk about the sale of craft ready-to-drink beverages (RTD) in grocery and convenience stores. It’s important that the public understands the full picture. 

The truth is, there is a growing RTD industry in Ontario. But unlike beer and wine, craft RTD beverages can currently only be sold at the LCBO. Having only one retail option has always made it difficult for made-in-Ontario craft producers to get their products into the hands of consumers. Allowing RTDs to be sold at grocery and convenience stores will provide small Ontario businesses like ours with the chance to reach our consumers, grow our businesses, and create more local jobs in communities across the province.

That is why the government’s plan to allow the sale of craft RTD beverages in grocery and convenience stores is so important.

It will also give consumers the choice they deserve. That’s something we should all want.

-Natasha Fritzley, Chair, Ontario Craft RTD Coalition, an association of 12 local producers who employ more than 1000 people across Ontario in municipalities including Toronto, London, Huron, Muskoka, Niagara, Hamilton and Barrie.