CORNWALL, Ontario – The Ontario government announced on Tuesday that the LCBO has rolled out a program allowing patrons to buy alcohol online, and have it delivered right to your door.
“Online shopping at LCBO.com enables us to offer a convenient customer experience in a changing marketplace,” said George Soleas, President and CEO of the LCBO. “This e-commerce platform draws on our local and international supplier relationships and buying power, efficient supply chain and extensive store network– bringing our customers across Ontario better access to a world of products. This new virtual LCBO store is a natural extension of our in store shopping experience.”
Over 5, 000 LCBO products are currently available online including some that you cannot find in-store. The LCBO says that this number could rise to as much as 16, 000 online products.
A key part of the program is the delivery of these products. Alcohol ordered online can either be picked up at an LCBO branch of the customer’s choosing, or it can be delivered. The LCBO says that it has partnered with Canada Post to complete these delivery operations and to ensure that all recipients are of legal drinking age.
The Ontario government is hailing this plan as a major economic boom for the province.
“This exciting launch of LCBO.com gives consumers greater choice and convenience while increasing opportunities for Ontario’s dynamic beverage alcohol producers,” said Charles Sousa, Ontario’s Finance Minister. “LCBO’s new e-commerce platform will continue to maintain a high standard of socially responsible distribution, while helping Ontario’s wine, beer and spirits businesses grow and create good, well-paying jobs in communities throughout Ontario.”
The LCBO claims that not only will this be a boost to the liquor industry, but it will also bring in significant amounts of funds for government programs.
Future plans for alcohol in Ontario include allowing select grocery stores to begin selling wine this coming Fall. Earlier this year, the government allowed some grocery stores to begin selling beer and ciders.
