The old saying goes, “good things grow in Ontario,” and it’s not just our fresh produce that applies.
Take its most populous city of Toronto (2.93M), home to the tallest national skyscraper, the most tourism hotspots, the widest shopping options and our country’s biggest fan bases crossing multiple major sports and entertainment teams and public figures; all while hosting and entertaining a record 43 million tourists annually (and rising). In fact, its standing as the 4th largest city in North America has allowed us to host, and be selected for, some of the world’s biggest events; from the 2015 Pan American Games to the 2017 Invictus Games to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
But what can this power province, and its major municipalities do for your product? Why should you sell here?
Let us break it down.
Of Canada’s 80,000+ restaurants, Ontario’s establishments account for over 40%.
Major Thirst in Ontario’s, and Canada’s, Busiest Travel Hub
Whether they’re travelling domestically or internationally, passengers have to eat and with thousands coming through Toronto’s Pearson International Airport daily, what better way to introduce your product to people from all over in one central spot.
Plus, food and beverage (including alcohol) are available for sale within its secure spaces 24/7!
Early Birds Can Still Get the Worm
Speaking of serving hours, Ontario has enacted a 9AM serving start time at bars and restaurants across the board, rather than 11AM. #EnjoyResponsibly
Plus the Occasions are Only Expanding from Here
Upcoming legislation will not only allow for alcohol in convenience stores and farmer’s markets but also presence at tailgating events ‘within a reasonable distance from major sports complexes.’ Imagine your brand outside some of the biggest championships known to sport (and then inside!)
But What About on the Shelves?
And It’s Not Just Happening in Ontario
Spirit sales have been on the increase nationwide with whiskey representing over 28% of those sales, and rising, followed by gin and tequila. Studies estimate the overall current value of the spirits industry in Canada to be at $6.22 billion.
Even Mixologists are Noticing the Shift Toward Spirits
“Cocktail and spirit trends have changed significantly during my time in the hospitality industry. American whiskey has surpassed Scotch in popularity at my bar. Despite emerging competition from other slow-sipper spirits, demand for bourbon and American whiskeys has not slowed down and continues to grow,” noted Jonathan Neill, Head Bartender of Ritz Bar at Toronto’s tourism staple, The Ritz-Carlton.
Contact us here for a consultation.
Sources
Number of Restaurants in Toronto – City of Toronto
Refreshing the Sale of Beverage Alcohol in Ontario – Ontario Chamber of Commerce
Toronto Bars and Restaurants Can Now Serve Booze Starting at 9 a.m. – BlogTO
Ontario is About to Legalize Tailgating for Sports Fans – BlogTO
2018-2019 Annual Report – Liquor Control Board of Ontario
Photo Credits: Cheers American Spirits