The hospitality industry in British Columbia is now able to utilize growlers to package draught beer in order to sell to patrons for off-site consumption.
Any Liquor Primary and Food Primary licensees will be able to sell growlers to consumers off-site — with the purchase of a meal — up until June 6, 2021.
Growlers will give restaurants and pubs an option to sell draught beer that would otherwise be at risk of spoiling. The government also believes that it helps financially by providing a short-term revenue stream amid the current restrictions.
“Hospitality industry representatives advocated to government for this change,” said Jeff Guignard, executive director, Alliance of Beverage Licensees BC. “It’s encouraging to see the Province take such fast action to help thousands of small and medium businesses recover some of the revenue opportunities that would’ve otherwise been lost during this latest period of restrictions.”
This marks the second time the temporary authorization was made available as the government allowed for growler sales during last year’s initial COVID-19 lockdown, however, the order was rescinded on July 13, 2020 — once on-site service resumed.
Once again, indoor dine-in options at restaurants have been suspended as COVID-19 cases across British Columbia surge at record-setting numbers. Dine-in service has been suspended until at least April 19, however, patio service and take-out/delivery can continue.
“We know it’s a tough time for the food and beverage sector, and we continue to work closely with industry representatives to be nimble and find ways to support the many restaurants, pubs and other establishments,” Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “I also want to extend my appreciation to the businesses that are adhering to the PHO orders and helping to keep British Columbians safe as we navigate this new wave of COVID-19 cases.”
Last Monday, a three-week ‘circuit breaker’ was deployed by Dr. Bonnie Henry and B.C. health officials in an effort to bring the active case numbers back down.
While the growler authorization is temporary, pubs and bars are able to permanently sell and deliver liquor packaged by a manufacturer with the purchase of a meal for off-site consumption
Restaurants and bars are also able to purchase beer, wine and spirits at wholesale prices, following a permanent change in February.
Graham Cox
