The province is moving ahead with the application process for private retail liquor store permits.
They are now accepting applications for two stores in Regina and three in Saskatoon. According to a news release from the province, the successful applicants are to be selected through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process.
This is the first step in a process that will see 40 existing government liquor stores converted as well as 11 new retail opportunities, with conversion of the 51st permit in Melfort to take place when its lease runs out in 2019.
Among the 40 existing liquor stores slated for conversion is the store on 22nd Street in Battleford. For the moment, though, the RFP process is limited to Saskatoon and Regina.
With respect to the remaining communities, the province states in a news release that those RFPs will be announced and released in stages over the coming weeks to “ensure timely and efficient processing of applications.”
The move towards expanded private retail delivery had been announced in November 2015. Legislation was brought in after the April 2016 provincial election.
“This is a big first step as we transition to an expanded private retail liquor system,” said minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Don McMorris in a statement.
“Today’s announcement covers the first of 50 retail opportunities available in communities throughout Saskatchewan.”
McMorris confirmed there has been a lot of interest expressed in the RFP process in a statement. “Once fully implemented, we will have a retail liquor system that provides consumers with more choice, more convenience and more competitive pricing.”
The application deadline for the Regina and Saskatoon opportunities is Aug. 8. Any questions about the RFP should be submitted by email (only) to [email protected].
