Exclusivity Agreements & Sponsorships

Liquor Bulletin

March 27, 2024

This bulletin is to advise liquor agencies and suppliers of amendments to the Exclusivity Agreements (EAs) & Sponsorships section of the Liquor Licensee Handbook (section 7.6), Liquor Agency Handbook (section 4.6), Liquor Manufacturer Handbook (section 8.5) and Sponsorships section of the Retail Liquor Store Handbook (section 6.5).

Effective immediately, the following changes regarding EAs will take effect:

  1. Agreements will no longer have to be reviewed beforehand by AGLC prior to the agreement taking effect. The completion of the Acknowledgement and Undertaking form signed by all parties prior to the start of the agreement will be required.
  2. Multiple types of the same liquor will be permitted at an event.
  3. As multiple types of liquor will be permitted, the agreements will be known as "Event/Team Agreements."
  4. Other approved Class B licensees will now be eligible to enter into EAs with agencies and suppliers.

In addition, minor amendments to streamline the sponsorship policy has also been implemented.

The amendments may be accessed on AGLC's website at aglc.ca.

Additional information regarding AGLC's commitment to a modern regulatory environment that supports consumer choice, innovation and economic growth can be found on AGLC's website at aglc.ca/modernization.

Please familiarize yourself with the amended policy and ensure all affected staff are notified of these changes.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact AGLC's Compliance Branch at: inspections.mailbox@aglc.ca.