The landscape of alcohol retail in Ontario is undergoing a dramatic shift as The Beer Store continues its wave of closures in 2025.
With 12 additional stores set to close on October 19, 2025—including three in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)—the province’s largest beer retailer is adapting to fierce competition following the government’s decision to expand alcohol sales to convenience stores.
This latest round of shutdowns adds to the growing list of closures, impacting communities across Ontario and raising concerns among customers and employees alike.
From Bridgenorth to Toronto, the closures signal a new era for beer shopping and empty bottle returns.
This comprehensive guide explores the latest Beer Store closures, the affected locations, the reasons behind the decision, and the broader impact on Ontario residents.
We’ll also provide practical tips for managing empty returns and staying informed about the evolving alcohol retail market.
Whether you’re a regular Beer Store shopper or curious about the changes, this article has everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
12 Stores Closing on October 19, 2025
As of October 19, 2025, 12 more The Beer Store locations will permanently close their doors, marking a significant reduction in the province’s beer retail network.
The affected stores span rural towns and urban centers, reflecting the widespread impact of this decision. The list includes:
- 882 Ward St., Bridgenorth
- 8647 Hwy. #60, Eganville
- 89 Main St. S., Forest
- 21 Ontario St. N., Grand Bend
- 398 King St. W., Harrow
- 53 Meredith St. E., Little Current
- 33 Argyle St., Markdale
- 142 David St. N., Noëlville
- 3078 Don Mills Rd., North York
- 704 Main St., Sauble Beach
- 900A Don Mills Rd., Unit #100, Toronto
- 800 Gerrard St. E., Toronto
These closures follow a pattern of downsizing, with three GTA locations—North York, Don Mills, and Gerrard Street—adding to the urban impact.
The decision comes as The Beer Store adjusts to a competitive market where convenience and grocery stores now offer beer, wine, and ready-to-drink cocktails.
The October shutdowns are not isolated events. Last month, on September 28, 2025, 11 additional stores ceased operations, including:
- 10585 Bramalea Rd., Brampton
- 49 Stover St. S., Norwich
- 30 Mill St., Clinton
Earlier, in July 2025, another 10 stores closed on September 14, with notable Toronto locations at 636 Greenwood Ave. and 4479 Kingston Rd. joining the list.
This summer, closures at 761 Queen St. W. and 1270 Woodbine Ave. in Toronto, along with earlier shutdowns at Yonge and Dundas, Queens Quay, and Roncesvalles, have already reduced access points for beer lovers and empty return programs.
Why Are Beer Stores Closing?
The driving force behind these closures is the changing retail landscape in Ontario.
In 2024, the provincial government, led by Premier Doug Ford, expanded alcohol sales to thousands of convenience stores and additional grocery outlets, breaking The Beer Store’s long-standing exclusivity agreement.
This shift, supported by a $225 million deal to ease the transition, has intensified competition and diminished the retailer’s market share.
Ozzie Ahmed, vice-president of retail at The Beer Store, explained, “Where we sell beer and collect empties in Ontario is changing.
The Beer Store is modernizing to meet the evolving marketplace, and unfortunately, this requires the tough choice to close some retail locations.”
Ahmed emphasized that these decisions are challenging but necessary to align with current consumer trends and government policies.
The closures are creating ripple effects across Ontario.
For customers, the loss of local Beer Stores means fewer convenient options for purchasing beer and returning empties.
Rural areas like Eganville and Little Current, where stores serve as community hubs, may feel the pinch more acutely than urban centers with alternative retailers.
Residents in these regions may face longer travel times to access remaining stores or return their bottles and cans.
The Beer Store processes over 1.6 billion alcohol containers annually, a critical service for recycling and deposit refunds.
With fewer locations, the burden of empty returns could shift to customers, at least until January 1, 2026, when grocery stores selling alcohol must also accept empties under new regulations.
The Beer Store acknowledges the human cost of these closures.
Ahmed noted, “We recognize the valuable contributions our employees make to our business and communities.
We are committed to supporting them through this transition, in line with our agreements and obligations.”
While specific support measures remain undisclosed, the retailer is working to mitigate job losses, a concern echoed by union representatives like John Nock of UFCW Canada Local 12R24, who has highlighted the loss of stable employment.
Under a deal with the provincial government, The Beer Store must maintain at least 300 locations until December 31, 2025.
After this date, the retailer will have the freedom to close additional stores, potentially accelerating the decline of its physical presence.
This flexibility reflects the ongoing liberalization of alcohol sales, with convenience and grocery stores becoming primary retail channels.
To remain competitive, The Beer Store is focusing on modernization.
Ahmed added, “Our remaining locations will continue to offer friendly service and a robust deposit return system, ensuring customers get their money back.”
The retailer is also encouraging the use of its website to find open stores and empty return dealers.
What This Means for Empty Returns?
One of the most pressing concerns is the fate of Ontario’s empty return program.
The Beer Store has long been the go-to spot for returning beer, wine, and spirit containers, but with over 90 closures since May 2024, options are dwindling.
Customers are urged to visit remaining Beer Stores or authorized return dealers to recycle their empties and claim deposits.
Starting January 1, 2026, grocery stores selling alcohol will be mandated to accept empties, a move aimed at maintaining the province’s recycling infrastructure.
However, some industry experts worry that grocers may opt out if compensation—currently two cents per container—proves insufficient, potentially leaving gaps in the system.
As Beer Store closures continue, here’s how you can stay ahead:
- Locate Nearby Stores: Use The Beer Store’s online locator at http://www.thebeerstore.ca/locations to find the closest open outlet.
- Visit Return Dealers: Check for authorized empty return dealers in your area, often listed on the same website.
- Hold Onto Empties: If no convenient option exists, store your containers until January 2026, when grocery stores take over.
- Support Charities: Donate empties to local fundraising drives by groups like Rotary clubs or sports teams.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from The Beer Store and provincial announcements for changes to return policies.
The Broader Alcohol Market Shift
The expansion of alcohol sales in Ontario marks a significant policy shift.
Since 2024, convenience stores and grocers have offered beer, wine, cider, and ready-to-drink cocktails, challenging The Beer Store’s dominance.
This move, part of Ford’s economic agenda, aims to boost consumer choice and convenience but has sparked debate about the loss of specialized retail and recycling services.
Industry analysts suggest that The Beer Store may need to reinvent itself post-2025. Options include enhancing in-store experiences, diversifying product offerings, or focusing on distribution and recycling logistics.
The retailer’s ability to adapt will determine its future in a crowded market.
Across Ontario, reactions to the closures vary.
Urban dwellers with access to grocery stores may welcome the change, while rural residents lament the loss of local access.
Frustration over job losses and reduced empty return options, with some blaming government policies for the retailer’s struggles.
Others see it as an inevitable evolution, with convenience stores filling the gap.
Historical Context of The Beer Store
Founded in 1927 as Brewers Retail Inc., The Beer Store has been a cornerstone of Ontario’s beer industry, owned by major brewers like Molson Coors, Labatt, and Sleeman.
Its exclusive agreement with the province, established decades ago, ensured a monopoly on large beer packs until 2024.
The current closures signal the end of an era, driven by changing consumer habits and government intervention.
Economically, the closures could lead to job losses and reduced revenue for small communities reliant on Beer Store employment.
Environmentally, the shift to grocery stores for empty returns raises questions about recycling efficiency.
Ontario’s current 50% container return rate lags behind provinces like British Columbia, where 80% are collected, highlighting the need for a robust system.
What’s Next for Beer Shoppers?
As 2025 progresses, Ontario residents should prepare for a transformed beer retail landscape.
The Beer Store’s remaining 300+ locations will continue to serve customers, but the focus may shift to online ordering and delivery.
Meanwhile, grocery and convenience stores will likely expand their alcohol sections, offering more variety and extended hours.
To keep track of closures and return options, follow provincial updates on alcohol policy.
Community forums and social media discussions offer additional insights into how others are adapting.
The wave of Beer Store closures in 2025 reflects a seismic shift in Ontario’s alcohol retail sector.
With 12 stores closing on October 19, joined by dozens more throughout the year, residents face new challenges and opportunities.
By leveraging remaining Beer Stores, exploring return dealers, and preparing for grocery store returns in 2026, you can navigate this change effectively.
Stay informed, support your local community, and adapt to the evolving market.
For the latest on Ontario’s beer scene, check back for updates or explore resources at www.thebeerstore.ca.
Together, we can ensure a smooth transition into this new chapter of beer retail in Ontario.
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