Ontario’s beer scene is going through major changes. Ontario Beer Store closures are becoming more frequent, and if you’re someone who grabs a case from The Beer Store for the weekend, here’s what you need to know: 10 more locations are closing this August as part of a bigger shift in how alcohol is sold in the province.
What’s happening?
The Beer Store, Ontario’s long-standing beer retailer, has confirmed that 10 of its locations will close permanently after business hours on August 10, 2025. This is part of its plan to modernize operations and stay competitive in a changing market. You can read the full details from the Financial Post here. Such trends suggest that Ontario Beer Store closures could continue as the retail environment evolves.
Why are these stores closing?
Since May 2024, Ontario began allowing beer, wine, cider, and ready-to-drink beverages to be sold in grocery stores, corner stores, gas stations, and big-box retailers. Ontario Beer Store closures are happening because more competition means fewer customers.
This means that The Beer Store is no longer the exclusive go-to for beer. With more competition and fewer customers, the company is scaling back.
According to The Economic Times, this shift has already caused the closure of over 40 stores since 2024, and the trend is continuing. As closures rise, many wonder about the future of purchasing options.
Which locations are affected?
While the full list of August closures hasn’t been shared publicly, past closures hit towns like Aurora, Coboconk, Richmond Hill, Wiarton, Windsor, and Greater Toronto Area suburbs.
This means both urban and rural communities are seeing fewer Beer Store options with the Ontario Beer Store closures.
What’s the impact on workers and customers?
- Staff Disruption: Some employees are being offered positions at other outlets, but workers in northern or rural Ontario could be left without local options.
- Customer Inconvenience: Fewer locations mean longer drives for many Ontarians. Plus, bottle returns, which are still mainly handled by The Beer Store, will become more difficult.
Don’t worry—starting January 1, 2026, grocery and big-box stores will also start accepting empties.
New places to buy beer
With this shift, more stores are now licensed to sell alcohol. You can read more about how Ontario’s alcohol system is changing in our post:
Corner Stores Can Now Sell Beer – What It Means for You
Or if you’re wondering which brands and sizes are available near you:
Top Beer Picks at Ontario Grocers This Summer
Will this affect prices?
Possibly. While The Beer Store had a fixed pricing model, grocery and convenience retailers could charge higher prices or offer limited selections. Some union representatives have raised concerns about this change impacting affordability, especially in light of the Ontario Beer Store closures.
What about recycling?
Right now, most people still return empty cans and bottles to The Beer Store. But as more locations close, grocery stores will take over recycling responsibilities by 2026.
We’re watching how this will affect local recycling rates. It’s a big shift, especially in areas with few return options.
Bottom line
Ontario is rewriting the beer playbook, and The Beer Store is downsizing as a result. With Ontario Beer Store closures, these changes reflect the broader shifts in how we shop, drink, and recycle in the province.
Stay updated with all retail and lifestyle shifts on Everyana’s News Section.
What do YOU think?
- Do you still visit The Beer Store, or have you switched to grocery or corner stores?
- Are bottle returns becoming harder in your area?
