As British Columbia prepares to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, government is launching a three-year trial to give bars, pubs and restaurants more flexibility to meet surges in demand and deliver the best possible customer experience.

Through the trial, licensed establishments will be able to buy alcohol directly from private and public liquor stores, providing the hospitality sector with greater flexibility, especially in situations where there is an immediate need to restock or source a specialty product.

“This targeted trial will help B.C.’s bars and restaurants respond quickly to customer demand, especially during major special events, supporting exceptional experiences for locals and tourists alike,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “We’re finding ways to support hospitality businesses, while protecting the good jobs and public revenue from B.C.’s public retail and distribution system.”

The BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) remains the central wholesaler and collects the same markup, whether hospitality customers buy from a BCLQUOR store or private retailer. No government revenue impacts are expected as the LDB and BCLIQUOR stores will continue to sell product to private retailers at wholesale price, a Ministry of Agriculture and Food media release explained.

BCLIQUOR stores will also maintain their existing service to hospitality licensees where restaurants, bars and pubs can submit orders for stocked and specialty products, or shop directly off the shelves.

This trial is not expected to impact public revenues or permanent jobs. Any revenue or labour impacts as a result of a change in hospitality-purchasing behaviour will be monitored during the trial period. Findings will be shared with labour and industry partners and will inform any future decisions about making changes permanent, the ministry said.

The trial runs until June 2029.

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