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The province is now accepting applications for retail liquor store permits in Regina and Saskatoon under its plan to expand private liquor sales.
Applications can be submitted up until August 8 for two retail opportunities in Regina and three in Saskatoon.
In November 2015, the government announced changes that will see an expanded private liquor retail system in Saskatchewan. This includes the conversion of 40 existing government liquor stores to private businesses as well as the addition of 11 new retail opportunities.
Conversion of the 51st permit in Melfort will take place in 2019 when its current lease expires.
The successful bidders will have to meet certain criteria.
“The financial capacity, the business plan, what community service they’re going to be involved in,” explained Don McMorris, Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority. “Once fully implemented we will have a retail liquor system that provides consumers with more choice, more convenience and more competitive pricing.”
The application process for other municipalities will begin in stages over the next few weeks.
McMorris maintained the government is working with the employees union to discuss future opportunities and/or severance packages.
The government would like to see employee groups bid to take over some of the liquor retail permits up for grabs.
More information on the tender process can be found at www.SaskTenders.ca and questions can be emailed to rfp.inquires@slga.gov.sk.ca.
