The Government of Ontario in Canada has authorised 76 grocery stores to sell beer and cider, starting 30 June this year.

The stores include 11 independent groceries and 65 shops owned by large grocers.

The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) held a competitive bidding process to select the grocers. The initiative was taken by the provincial government to enhance the convenience of the people buying beer, while providing a new platform for setting up opportunities for breweries and cideries.

"With the addition of 76 stores, the number of authorisations has increased to 206."

Currently, 130 grocery stores across the Ontario province have the permission to sell beer and cider, which also includes 70 stores that are authorised to retail wine products. With the addition of 76 stores, the number of authorisations has increased to 206.

The stores will operate in a designated sales area and are required to follow standard hours of sale. They must also abide by limitations on package size and alcohol content, as well as meet staffing and social responsibility training requirements.

The decision is also expected to help create a competitive business environment for beer and cider producers as part of the government's plan to create new jobs.