In 2023, the provincial government announced the modernization of the marketplace to create more convenience and choice for consumers. In addition to more retailers selling alcohol, it was announced that LCBO will become the exclusive wholesaler for all retail, bars and restaurants selling alcohol and a new ‘cost-plus’ wholesale pricing would be developed that was consistent for all retailers.
At the same time, LCBO has embarked on a multi-year program called Future State Modernization (FSM) that will strengthen our IT systems, and streamline our business processes, improving our operations for our company and our stakeholders.
FSM is a critical enabler of marketplace modernization, and both will result in changes for suppliers in the coming months.
Key changes for LCOs starting April 1, 2026
- In April 2026, LCBO will become the exclusive wholesaler to LCOs, which means that LCOs will now purchase products, including domestic beer, through the LCBO or via domestic suppliers who have been authorized as part of LCBO’s Direct Delivery Program.
- As directed by the provincial government, LCBO is implementing a new wholesale pricing model based on a formula that adds taxes, mark-ups, and fees to the supplier’s quote. The new pricing model closely aligns with industry standard best practices and will streamline and simplify the current wholesale pricing model.
- There will be targeted enhancements to wholesale.lcbo.com, improved fill rates for LCBO-supplied products and more Ontario suppliers managing fulfillment and delivery of LCO orders.
- We will be streamlining the way you submit claims; they will now be submitted through wholesale.lcbo.com. Expect training in 2026.
- Any refunds for valid claims (including damaged product and product recalls) will be refunded directly to your bank account.
- Dropshipping will be introduced, which means that if you purchase select Ontario-made products on wholesale.lcbo.com, they may be shipped directly from the alcohol supplier.
