In February, we shared LCBO’s phased approach to easing COVID-19 protocols in alignment with Ontario’s reopening plan. With the recent provincial government announcement regarding the removal of the mask mandate in most settings as of March 21, the LCBO will proceed to Phase 2 as we safely return to normal operations.  

On March 21, the following changes will come into effect: 

  1. Masking: Mask use will no longer be a mandatory requirement however it remains a recommended form of protection to keep our employees, customers, and partners safe. 
  2. In-store tastings: In-store consumer tastings, Trade tastings with employees, and other tastings such as Staff Picks will resume under a phased approach. More information will be shared as it becomes available.  
  3. Vintages/Promotional events: Tasting events including walk around tastings to return. 
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We’d also like to remind you that as of March 14, employees and Trade partners who are considered unvaccinated are not required to proactively test and all employees and Trade partners who experience any COVID-19 symptoms should follow public health guidance and use publicly-available tests as required. Also, employees and Trade are no longer required to complete active screening prior to entering the workplace, but are reminded not to come to the office if sick and follow public health guidance. 

As we’ve committed to do throughout the pandemic, we’ll remain agile and evolve our plan as needed in response to the changing environment, and we will communicate any changes and dates as they are determined. 

If you have questions about the outlined details, please contact your LCBO representative.