Monthly archive for August 2017

It’s no secret that the competitive landscape for pubs and liquor stores in BC is becoming ever more challenging.

As business owners there are many things we all want to strategically do, but most come down to 5 basic needs: Drive Traffic; Increase Frequency/Loyalty; Grow Basket/Cheque; Differentiate vs. Your Competition; and Reduce Cost/Complexity.

Across Canada beer sales have been on the decline for the first half of 2017. Although the craft segment is growing, overall the category is dropping, with the exception of YT & NU.

BC’s Liquor Control and Licensing Branch has announced changes to all-inclusive ticket pricing at tasting events, signage requirements, and catering authorizations for low-risk events.

At the BC Hospitality Foundation’s Dish ‘n Dazzle, Philipp Karatsyupa (left) won the cocktail competition with his unique recipe for Scotsman’s Karma. Competition Judge, David Wolowidnyk (right), announced the winner.

If any retailer was still in doubt that delivery is the way of the future, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos has put that firmly to rest. The e-commerce giant recently bought Whole Foods for US$13.7 billion, not because Bezos wants easy access to organic avocadoes and house brand coconut water, but because he wants access to the upscale grocer’s warehouses and distribution centres.

Effective August 15, 2017, amended policy will bring Alberta craft beers and spirits to approved farmers’ markets alongside cottage wine, which is already approved to be sold at these venues. “This policy builds a new connection between local business and their local community while increasing access to locally-made liquor products.

Since the craft cocktail scene’s revitalization over the last 20 years, spirit companies have seen huge increases in sales, particularly over the last 10 years. The thirst for craft style cocktails is still growing, so how do we give guests a craft experience without having highly trained craft technicians on staff? The answer is batching.