In 2023, the provincial government announced the modernization of the marketplace to create more convenience and choice for consumers. In addition to more retailers selling alcohol, it was announced that LCBO will become the exclusive wholesaler for all retail, bars and restaurants selling alcohol and a new ‘cost-plus’ wholesale pricing would be developed that was consistent for all retailers. These changes will be implemented on April 1, 2026.
At the same time, LCBO has embarked on a multi-year program called Future State Modernization (FSM) that will strengthen our IT systems, and streamline our business processes, improving our operations for our company and our stakeholders.
FSM is a critical enabler of marketplace modernization, and both will result in changes for suppliers in the coming months.
Key changes for licensees starting April 1, 2026
- Since LCBO becomes the wholesaler of record, all domestic brewers that currently sell directly to bars & restaurants must be authorized under the Direct Delivery Program, sold through the Beer Store (who is an authorized distributor and facilitates sales on LCBO's behalf) or be listed on wholesale.lcbo.com. A list of Direct Delivery Program participants will be available at a later date.
- As directed by the provincial government, LCBO is implementing a new wholesale pricing model based on a formula that adds taxes, mark-ups, and fees to the supplier’s quote. The new pricing model closely aligns with industry standard best practices and will streamline and simplify the current wholesale pricing model.
There are no changes to the agents' ability to facilitate sales on LCBO’s behalf to hospitality licensees under Specialty Services. There are also no changes to purchases from suppliers (wine, spirit and RTD) authorized under the Direct Delivery Program.
Key changes for licensees who currently order online starting April 1, 2026
- We will be streamlining the way you submit claims; they will now be submitted through wholesale.lcbo.com. Expect training in the new year.
- Other changes include targeted enhancements to wholesale.lcbo.com, and improved fill rates for LCBO-supplied products.
- We will be expanding same-day pickup to all 680+ LCBO stores.
- Dropshipping will be introduced, which means that if you purchase select Ontario-made products on wholesale.lcbo.com, they may be shipped directly from the alcohol supplier.
