Spirits Canada analysis finds value in Ontario spirits industry

Spirits Canada today welcomed new analysis by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis (CANCEA), which demonstrates the value of Ontario’s distilled spirits manufacturing and the serious consequences of artificially limiting the industry’s growth potential.

Spirits Canada president and CEO Jan Westcott, reacting to the report, commented: “Ontario promised real choice and convenience in alcohol shopping options for Ontarian adults. Now, the government must ensure distilled spirits made here at home are given at least equal treatment as provided for imported beer and wine.”

Ontario can look to other provinces for examples. When British Columbia included spirits in its private liquor sales expansion, the province reaped the benefits – doubling provincial revenue and enhancing consumer satisfaction.

On the other hand, when Quebec excluded spirits from grocery and corner stores, spirits lost 65 per cent of its market share, closed facilities, and shed jobs.

CANCEA’s analysis shows Ontario can expect to see the same outlook as Québec.