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Rural Liquor Stores (RLRS) – Getting a Licence, or Moving a Store

Those of us living in smaller rural communities are very familiar with liquor in our local grocery stores – In recent years these outlets became licensed by the BC Government having been run for many years as ‘Rural Agency Stores’. This newer licence class is termed RLRS.
With licensing came specific rules about where the existing stores and potential new RLRS could be located in order to lessen impact on existing Private Liquor Stores.
This can make it challenging for RLRS owners who might wish to relocate their business, or move to a larger premises. Thankfully, it can be done, as one of our clients was very glad to find out!
We were recently very pleased to secure the first relocation approval for an established RLRS in East Kootenay (and beyond). This means that the community this store serves is going to get a larger grocery store that will also provide access to other services, create jobs, and bring a greater range of goods, services, and liquor to locals ‘on their doorstep’.
If you own an RLRS in BC, and are considering upsizing, or relocating your business; or if you have an established general store in a rural community, and want to secure a new RLRS licence -Please reach out with any questions, and for assistance in navigating the process…..