Manitobans can now order booze with takeout or delivery orders from their favourite restaurant.
After taking heat from restaurants for not allowing beer, wine and spirits on delivery and takeout orders during the COVID-19 pandemic, the province announced changes to the rules Monday.
“We have heard from restaurant owners who have expressed a strong interest in selling wine, beer and single-serve beverages through food take out or delivery service, and had already started the process of bringing in necessary changes,” said Crown Services Minister Jeff Wharton, in a release.
“These businesses have been significantly impacted by the outbreak of COVID-19 and by allowing this flexibility now, restaurants will be able to offer an additional service to customers when it is needed most.”
Under the new rules, liquor delivery and takeout orders must be linked to meal orders offered by licensed establishments whose primary business is food.
The province says liquor pricing will be the same as in-dining service menu prices.
Wharton said allowing licensed establishments to sell liquor with take out and delivery will provide “greater opportunities and flexibility for businesses significantly impacted by COVID-19, and more choice and convenience for consumers coping with the pandemic at home.”
On Friday the Manitoba Restaurant & Foodservices Association called out Manitoba’s government for not allowing restaurants to add booze to delivery and takeout orders.
Last week, Ontario amended a regulation to allow bars and restaurants to temporarily sell alcohol as part of a food order for takeout or delivery due to the pandemic, and British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan have also allowed the practice.
On Monday, the province also announced measures forcing all non-essential businesses to shut down to try to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Starting Wednesday, salons, spas, bars and other establishments are to be closed, but restaurants will be allowed to remain open for takeout or delivery only.
— With files from The Canadian Press
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