The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) is amending the requirements for granting liquor franchises in communities where there is no SLGA liquor store or franchise.
The change means nine communities with populations greater than 1,000 will now be eligible for a liquor franchise. Support from the local municipal council is required before SLGA will proceed with awarding a franchise.
"As Saskatchewan continues to grow and populations increase, we want to ensure that services provided are consistent with people's expectations," Minister responsible for SLGA Donna Harpauer said. "These changes will help ensure that customer needs are met."
Prior to this change, businesses interested in operating a liquor franchise had to meet two main criteria: they had to be located at least 20 kilometres from the nearest SLGA liquor store or franchise and have a year-round population greater than 250. Because of the distance requirement, many growing communities were excluded simply because of their proximity to other towns or villages that have a franchise.
"As our community continues to grow, it's important that our residents have access to a full line of businesses and services, including a retail liquor outlet," White City Mayor Bruce Evans said.
Another change being made will give existing franchises in communities with a population greater than 1,000 residents the opportunity to sell a full selection of beer, not just specialty beer products.
Rural franchises are existing businesses that also sell alcohol on behalf of SLGA. There are approximately 185 liquor franchises currently operating in Saskatchewan.
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