Craft beer or micro brewery license

A convenience or grocery store liquor license allows qualified stores to sell alcohol for off-site consumption. Types of alcohol permitted for sale vary by province and state. Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors helps grocery businesses navigate the complex liquor licensing process. We’ll take the lead, ensuring that the application meets the expectations of your province or state liquor authority. We take care of the details, to save you time and minimize license approval delays.

Liquor license applications & updates

Our liquor license consultants prepare all supporting documentation that will be submitted with your liquor license application. Required documents usually include ownership information, criminal record checks, company structure, floor plans, drawings that show the location of liquor displays and fridges, photos of signage, security plans, and proof of valid responsible service training certification for each employee who sells liquor. Thrive also assists with updates when you expand, renovate, or change ownership.

Regulatory compliance support

Once licensed, convenience/grocery store operators must maintain ongoing compliance with rules that govern how liquor is sold, displayed, and stored. Thrive helps operators maintain compliance standards by providing compliance audits, compliance training, and by writing policy and procedures manuals.

What we do

Thrive consultants help with all aspects of liquor licensing, including:

  • Grocery or convenience store liquor license applications
  • License updates, renewals and transfers
  • Floor plan review
  • Display and signage review

  • Public consultation coordination
  • Endorsement applications (e.g. liquor delivery)
  • Compliance audits and training
  • Policy and procedures development

Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors provides liquor licensing and compliance support to grocery and convenience stores across Canada and select U.S. jurisdictions. View the areas we serve.

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Liquor license FAQ

1Can any grocery or convenience store apply for a liquor license?
Eligibility varies by province or state. Some jurisdictions limit licenses to stores above a certain size (square footage) or require grocery sales to remain the primary focus of the business. Thrive will determine whether your store meets liquor license requirements
2Can we sell both refrigerated and unrefrigerated alcohol products?
In some areas, cold beer and wine sales require an additional endorsement or permit. We will guide you through the specific conditions that apply in your region.
3Do store staff need special training to sell alcohol?
Usually, any employee that sells liquor must complete and pass responsible liquor sales training. Licensing authorities list approved training courses on their licensing web pages which we can direct you to for your region. Training is usually offered online.
4What happens if ownership or management changes?
Most licensing authorities require you to update or transfer your license when ownership changes. We manage the process to ensure your license remains valid and uninterrupted.
5Can liquor products be displayed anywhere in the store?
No. Regulations often specify approved display areas and signage. Thrive helps you design compliant layouts that maintain a positive shopping experience.
6How much does consulting cost?
Our consulting fees vary depending on the complexity of your convenience or grocery store liquor licensing needs. We will provide an estimate after an initial consultation.

If you’re looking for trusted advisors who work in partnership with you to ensure the success of your business, let’s talk.

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