(Stephanie Syjuco/freeimages.com)

By Troy Gillard

Boost for business

Distillers cheer expanded take-out cocktail options in Alberta

Dec 15, 2020 | 11:01 AM

EDMONTON – Canadian and Albertan distilled spirits manufacturers are raising a glass to Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis’ (AGLC) decision to allow for more at-home drink drink options for Albertans.

AGLC is allowing licensed on-premise bars and restaurants to offer consumers spirits cocktails prepared on their premises for take-out or delivery cocktails on-demand and virtual tastings delivered to your door.

“AGLC’s decision to expand the liquor menu items available for take-out or delivery to include spirits cocktails made on the premises provides a critical economic lifeline for local neighbourhood bars and restaurants across Alberta – especially during the pandemic,” said Mr. Jan Westcott, Spirits Canada President and CEO. “It supports these local businesses to rehire or retain their bartenders, extends their unique in-dining experience to homes and provides Alberta consumers greater choice and convenience.”

Spirits Canada says the benefits of adding prepared cocktails-to-go include encouraging operators to retain or re-employ bartenders and mixologists, and providing a critical economic lifeline to neighbourhood bars and restaurants by the addition of their highest margin product in most cases;

They say it also allows operators to extend their full in-site dining experience to home orders, makes it easier for consumers to order food and drinks together, and allows consumers greater choice and access to their favourite adult beverages.

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“The AGLC Board of Directors and staff have really stepped-up with smart and targeted policy support to help as many local neighbourhood bars and restaurants survive the current economic challenges while ensuring a safe and responsible beverage alcohol market”, added Westcott.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Spirits Canada says it has been in regular contact with federal, provincial and municipal liquor regulators and tax authorities to explore ways to support the hard-hit Canadian hospitality and tourism sector.