Beer in corner stores? N.S. considers expanding where alcohol is sold, say sources

The Nova Scotia government appears poised to announce changes to where alcohol can be sold in the province.

Multiple sources tell CBC News that there have been ongoing conversations about expanding sales to convenience stores.

Andrew Tanner, co-founder of Saltbox Brewing Company in Mahone Bay and president of the Craft Brewers Association of Nova Scotia, said members have heard from "some very credible resources" that an announcement could come as soon as the end of the month and changes could ready for sometime in the fall.

Tanner said the association has not been consulted, but he's hoping that changes soon.

"We're just awaiting with bated breath the call from the premier to say, 'Hey, we'd like to invite you to a meeting to talk about this idea,'" he said in an interview.

Karl Coutinho, chair of the board for Wine Growers Nova Scotia, said in an email that members of his organization have not been a part of any discussions nor have they heard anything, but they welcome the idea and would expect to be consulted if sale channels are to be expanded.

In a brief interview, Mike Hammoud, Atlantic vice-president of the Convenience Industry Council of Canada, said he's heard rumours but has not been involved in any formal meetings. He declined further comment.

"There's just too many uncertainties that are happening right now," he said.

A spokesperson for the province's Finance Department said many people have expressed an interest in seeing beverage alcohol sold in more locations, particularly in rural areas, and in supporting Nova Scotia products.

"We are always open to proposals and we're always listening to Nova Scotians," Rachel Boomer said in the statement.

"We don't currently have any changes planned, but we'll let Nova Scotians know if and when we do."

A spokesperson for the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation referred questions to the provincial government.

In Nova Scotia, alcohol is mainly sold at NSLC stores, agency stores in rural communities, at four private stores in the Halifax area and at sites owned by breweries, distilleries and wineries.

The sales model is different in some other provinces, such as Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador, where certain products are available in convenience stores. Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced plans last year to speed up the sale of beer, wine and ready-made cocktails in corner stores and additional supermarkets.