Alberta Liquor Privatization

When Alberta became the first Canadian jurisdiction to privatize liquor retailing, warehousing and distribution in 1993, it was considered a bold step. Now, Albertans view it as simply another commercial enterprise operating successfully in the province.

In fact, private liquor retailing has been remarkably well received by consumers and everyone involved in the liquor industry and continues to meet the original objectives set out by the government.

The Alberta experience demonstrates that liquor retailing can be responsibly and well managed by the private sector, with government continuing to carry out its regulatory responsibilities and collecting revenue from liquor sales for use in public programs.

Privatization has helped the liquor industry, benefiting both retailers and consumers. More locations and greater product selection are some of the results.

BEFORE Privatization (prior to Sept. 2, 1993)

Number of retail outlets – 304

• 202 Alberta Liquor Control Board retail stores
• 30 retail beer stores
• 23 wine stores
• 49 agency stores

Number of products – 3,325

Liquor prices – "postage stamp" prices across the province in government-run stores

Employment – 1,300 full and part-time jobs

AFTER Privatization (as of October 2009)

Number of retail outlets – 1,726

• 1,104 Retail liquor stores
• 496 Off-sales (hotel / manufacturer / other)
• 90 General merchandise liquor stores (rural locations)

Number of products available – 16,495

Employment – 4,000 full and part-time jobs

For more information on the privatization of Alberta’s retail liquor industry, take a look at:

• Review of Liquor Mark-Up Structure and Related Policies
• Quick Facts – Liquor in Alberta, and
• A New Era In Liquor Administration (1994)