Quebec consumers want ready-to-drink spirit-based beverages in grocery stores: study
A recent Léger poll conducted on behalf of Spirits Canada revealed support among Quebec consumers for the sale of ready-to-drink spirit-based beverages in grocery stores, supermarkets and convenience stores.
In Quebec, spirit-based ready-to-drink beverages must be sold at the SAQ, while malt, wine, and cider-based beverages are available in grocery and convenience stores, despite having similar alcohol content.
“In response to Bill 11, which amends various provisions primarily for the purpose of reducing regulatory and administrative burdens, representatives of the spirits industry and the food retail sector welcome the government’s willingness to simplify the regulatory framework, but deplore the fact that their request to expand the sale of ready-to-drink (RTD) spirits in supermarkets and convenience stores was not accepted,” notes a press release.
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Among consumers of these products, 91% of regular consumers and 77% of occasional consumers say they are in favour of this change.
Spirits Canada, the Union Québécoise des Microdistilleries (UQMD), the Association des Détaillants en Alimentation du Québec (ADA), and the Retail Council of Canada – Quebec (RCC) are asking the Quebec government to reconsider the distinction.
“Quebecers’ shopping habits have changed over the past few years; this is the natural evolution of a vibrant market,” explains Michel Rochette, president of the Retail Council of Canada – Quebec. “The spirits segment has grown significantly, both in terms of quality and reputation, in Quebec and elsewhere in the country.”
The UQMD believes the reform would strengthen Quebec’s domestic spirits sector and contribute directly to the economic vitality of the regions.
According to a study conducted by UQMD, the sale of ready-to-drink beverages in grocery and convenience stores would generate $15.1 million in additional revenue for its members.
In addition to the UQMD, RCC Quebec and ADA have expressed their support for expanding their offerings to include ready-to-drink spirit-based beverages, in the same way as other categories of ready-to-drink beverages.
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“If there is one type of business that listens to its customers’ needs, it is grocery stores. The survey conducted for Spirits Canada confirms that consumers want greater and more convenient access to these ready-to-drink beverages, and as local stores, grocery stores are ideally suited to meet this demand,” said Pierre-Alexandre Blouin, president and CEO of the ADA.
