08/26/2024
WE SAY NO TO ALCOHOL SALES
We, at Ideal Fine Foods and Convenience, are writing to express our strong opposition to the Ontario Government's recent decision to allow the sale of liquor in convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery markets. While we understand the government’s intent to increase revenue and enhance consumer accessibility, we believe that the negative consequences of this policy far outweigh any potential benefits.
Financial Impact on Small Businesses
Allowing liquor sales in convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery markets may provide a short-term financial boost for large chains, but it poses a serious threat to small, independent businesses like ours. Small businesses are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, and many of us do not have the resources or infrastructure to safely manage and sell alcohol. The introduction of alcohol sales would require significant investment in training, security, and inventory management—costs that are prohibitive for many small businesses.
Moreover, increased competition from large grocery chains and gas stations, which can more easily absorb these costs, would place small businesses at a severe disadvantage. This could result in closures and job losses in communities across Ontario, undermining the local economy and the livelihoods of countless families.
Safety Issues
The easy access to alcohol in more locations also raises significant safety concerns. The presence of alcohol in convenience stores and gas stations increases the risk of theft, break-ins, and underage sales, which could lead to more dangerous situations for both store owners and employees. The increased risk of break-ins, especially during off-hours, poses a direct threat to the safety and security of our stores.
Additionally, employees who are not trained to handle the sale of alcohol may find themselves in situations where they must confront intoxicated or aggressive individuals, putting their safety at risk. Unlike dedicated liquor stores with strict controls and trained staff, many of these new points of sale may not be equipped to handle the responsibility of selling alcohol safely. This could lead to more alcohol-related incidents, jeopardizing the safety of our communities.
Health Concerns
The increased availability of alcohol in everyday locations raises serious public health concerns. Research consistently shows that greater access to alcohol leads to higher consumption rates, which in turn increases the incidence of alcohol-related health problems such as liver disease, addiction, and mental health issues. Ontario’s healthcare system is already under significant strain, and this policy will likely exacerbate the burden on our hospitals and clinics, creating long-term challenges that could be difficult to mitigate.
For all these reasons, we say no to alcohol sales and will not sell alcohol at our store.
Ideal Fine Foods and Convenience
, FordNation Ontario Liberal Party / Parti Libéral de l'Ontario Ontario NDP, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
