I hope that this note finds you well and that you and your families and your colleagues are staying well as we continue to navigate COVID-19, following public health guidance as we monitor the wave of activity across the province.

As part of our commitment to keeping our valued Trade partners updated, I share with you today some exciting news at the LCBO.

As you know, Abhay Garg has been acting in the role of VP, Merchandising, as well as leading LCBO’s Inventory & Quality Assurance teams. It is my pleasure to share that, effective immediately, Abhay Garg is moving over to take on this new opportunity on a permanent basis.

Abhay will report directly to me, although continued integration withing the CCO and Supply Chain & Wholesale Division remains. Alanna Bailey, Director, Merchandising Operations, Kathy Cannon, Director, European Wine & Destination Collection, Marie Cundari, Director, New World & Ontario Wines, Chris Robertson, Director, Beer, Cider & Ready-To-Drink, and
Stacee Roth, Director, Spirits, and the Merchandising team will report directly to Abhay.

Nick Nanos, our Chief Supply Chain Officer, with Abhay’s support over a period of transition leading up to the holidays, will be recruiting a VP, Inventory Planning & Quality Assurance for the Supply Chain & Wholesale Division and we will keep you updated as able.

Since joining the LCBO almost three years ago, Abhay’s extensive and diverse experience leading the inventory team has been instrumental in the transformation of our supply chain operations. He brought great focus to creating connections and ensuring a seamless experience for us and for you as a leader in Merchandising.

Abhay’s thoughtful and authentic approach, deep knowledge base, sharp business acumen, and approachable nature makes him a trusted collaborator – with his teams, with colleagues across the business, and with our stakeholders and partners. Our Merchandising strategy and product assortment are the building blocks of our business and I know he his excited to lead the team and work alongside you to ensure that our customers have a consistently exceptional experience and always find the products they are looking to enjoy and explore.

Please join me in congratulating Abhay on his new role. I am sure that he will be in touch with many of you as we prepare for our busiest season. Thank you in advance for the support you will continue to extend to him as he officially joins the Merchandising team.

Take care and stay safe.

George Soleas
LCBO President & CEO