It seems small businesses in Nova Scotia are on board with alcohol sales at convenience stores.
A survey from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business says nearly eight in 10 support the idea.
The federation’s Duncan Robertson says it’s about getting the province caught up to the rest of the country.
“Other provinces have allowed for some kind of private retail sale of alcoholic beverages beyond an agency store. It’s a reality a lot of other provinces have accepted, but here in Nova Scotia we’re lagging behind,” said Robertson.
He says research shows the province needs 167 more retail locations for people to have the same access as the average Canadian.
Robertson says local producers need to be included in that extra shelf space.
“Ensuring that local beverages can be accessed in those stores to give those producers the step-up that they need as well. Again it’s not a groundbreaking move, it’s about getting Nova Scotia on par with the rest of Canada.”
The CFIB recommends allowing beverages under 7.1 percent to be sold at convenience and grocery stores.
The province announced last week they’re exploring the idea, and will conduct a survey to gauge feedback.
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