Operations Analyst

GMS goes offline as LCBO prepares new platform. As LCBO transitions to a new ordering and claims platform, convenience stores will use a new active platform for alcohol ordering and claims. During the week-long transition orders will not be accepted through the old system. On April 1, wholesale.lcbo.com will become the active platform for ordering and claims. To help retailers navigate the change, the LCBO has released two training videos. Introduction to wholesale.lcbo.com - Grocery & Convenience Interim Ordering Solutions - Non-EDI Convenience Customers guides smaller or independent stores who do not use automated EDI systems on placing manual orders for both the LCBO and The Beer Store during the transition week, ensuring shelves remain stocked. The LCBO is also introducing a new wholesale pricing model. Prices will now be based on supplier cost with standard mark-ups and fees, replacing the previous system tied to retail prices. Retailers will continue to set their own shelf prices within Minimum Retail Pricing rules. "This change is meant to create a more open, equitable, and competitive marketplace that benefits both businesses and consumers," the LCBO said. * CSNC EXCLUSIVE: LCBO to revamp ordering system Changes to address returns and exchanges to better service the convenience channel. * CSNC Exclusive Q&A: LCBO's Leanne Rhee speaks on the Crown agency's plans for 2026 New pricing model, ordering platform for c-stores just some of the changes happening next year for the province's beverage alcohol market. * LCBO overhaul: Starting Jan. 1 pricing changes, alternative delivery partners may be on the way Crown corporation unveils new pricing model to convenience retailers. * Convenience stores, LCBO navigate growing pains with roll out of beverage alcohol Over time, processes have become easier and delivery times are improving, however there are still some kinks to overcome.

LILLEY: LCBO CEO George Soleas to step down, new leadership taking over. After more than a decade in the top job, Soleas is set to step down as the LCBO sees generational change. Article content. George Soleas is stepping down as CEO of the Liquor Control Board of Ontario effective Jan. 31, 2026. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. His replacement, at least on an interim basis, will be Aaron Campbell, currently serving as vice-president in charge of corporate affairs, strategy, and sustainability. Soleas joined the LCBO in 1997 after a decade with Andres Wines, now known as Andrew Peller Limited. He held various positions within the LCBO, moving up the ranks until he was appointed CEO in May 2016 by the Wynne government and then-finance minister Charles Sousa. A statement Monday from the LCBO on Soleas' departure said that Soleas had strategically positioned the LCBO to be a leader in alcohol sales for decades to come. "Over his tenure, George earned a reputation as an innovative, award-winning, and values-based leader. His dedication, insight and expertise will leave a lasting mark on our organization," said Carmine Nigro, chair of the board, LCBO. Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. A leader in time of massive change. Soleas was in charge over a time of dramatic change at the LCBO and the industry may take a different view than Nigro. It was the Wynne government that appointed Soleas as CEO just as they were allowing the sale of beer and wine in some 450 grocery stores starting in October 2016. As the pandemic shifted the retail environment, he oversaw the organization as stores limited hours for a time and adjusted to how bars and restaurants were serviced. And of course, Soleas was in charge as the Ford government further expanded retail options by expanding the sale of beer, wine and ready-to-drink beverages to more grocery stores as well as convenience and big box locations. The most recent fiscal update from the province showed that for the first time in more than a decade, the LCBO will return a dividend to the province of less than $2 billion, coming in at just $1.85 billion for the 2025-26 fiscal year. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Expanded alcohol sales not to blame for decline. Some have blamed the decline on the expansion of retail outlets, that's part of the story, but only a small part. Overall, alcohol consumption has been in decline for several years. Older Canadians are drinking less for health reasons; younger Canadians are turning to cannabis rather than beer and wine. Our shifting immigration patterns are also seeing an influx of people from countries and cultures, particularly Islam, where alcohol consumption is frowned upon. There is a major shift happening, and the LCBO has not managed itself properly to account for this. The LCBO currently has a smaller per capita return to Ontario's coffers than their counterparts in other provinces. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. In 2024, the LCBO's dividend to the province amounted to $159 per capita compared to $161 in Quebec, $164 in Alberta, and $202 in British Columbia. As if that isn't bad enough, the LCBO sells Ontario-made products for more money than those other provinces and still has a smaller return. An Ontario-made product such Wiser's Deluxe Canadian whiskey will cost you $32.95 at the LCBO, but just $31.25 in Quebec, $28.99 in Alberta and $27.99 in British Columbia. Change in leadership is needed for the new era. Clearly, something is going to have to change at the LCBO. Campbell, the interim CEO, joined the LCBO in July 2017 and has been working closely with Soleas ever since. He will take over on an interim basis on Feb. 1, though could become permanent CEO down the road. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. "In addition to extensive experience in public service, Aaron has a deep understanding of LCBO's operations and strong connections with industry stakeholders and Ontario's local producers. Aaron is well-positioned to lead the agency as we work through next steps and the Board thanks him for his leadership at this critical time," Nigro added in his statement. Campbell is a favourite of Nigro's with the board chair pushing for him to replace Soleas when the time came. His reputation in the industry is more mixed, with many fans and but also detractors. There is no word yet on whether there will be a search for a new CEO of the $7.5-billion-a-year corporation.