Lloydminster, AB/SK – The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority will allow Lloydminster’s Alberta-side craft liquor manufacturers to direct deliver products to Saskatchewan-side retail stores.
This Lloydminster-specific exception to the SLGA’s standard procedure for craft liquor sales comes in the wake of recent discussions between representatives of the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce, the City of Lloydminster and the SLGA. The talks focused on Lloydminster’s unique bi-provincial status and how the agencies might collaborate to reduce unnecessary procedures, expenses and delays for Lloydminster-based producers and retailers. Confirmation of the SLGA decision was received by the City of Lloydminster and the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 17.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers says red-tape reduction continues to be an area of emphasis in his discussions with leaders from other levels of government.
“This exception granted by SLGA represents an exciting breakthrough in our ongoing work to reduce barriers for small businesses operating in Lloydminster’s bi-provincial setting. Part of our strategy to make Lloydminster an ever-more attractive target for business investment lies in making things easier for local businesses from a bureaucracy perspective wherever we are able.”
Under this exception, the liquor retail store in Lloydminster must place an order through SLGA’s special order process. SLGA will issue a purchase order to the Alberta craft alcohol producer located in Lloydminster and authorization to deliver the product named in the purchase order directly to the Saskatchewan retail store.
“Paperwork, procedures, permits – these are the sort of things that should be minimized where possible to ensure local proprietors can focus on growing and operating their businesses. We appreciate the Government of Saskatchewan’s openness to developing this made-for-Lloydminster solution to a problem that has long vexed our local craft liquor manufacturers and retailers,” said Teri-Lynn Mackie, executive eirector of the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce
The SLGA also stated the new exception would have no impact on ordering, pricing (including applicable markup) and invoicing. In addition, the exception applies only to liquor ordered by a Saskatchewan retailer through SLGA’s special order service. It does not allow Alberta craft liquor manufacturers to send or direct-deliver liquor to other permittees or individuals located in Saskatchewan.
