People searching for the perfect local gift have additional choices this year thanks to recently expanded rules allowing liquor sales at artisan markets.

As part of the ongoing effort to cut red tape for small businesses in British Columbia, restaurants no longer have to provide a separate lounge area for customers who want to enjoy a cocktail.

In an effort to better meet customer demand for craft beer products, BC Liquor Stores have been given the green light to work with their closest microbreweries to expand local offerings on their shelves.

Coralee Oakes, Minister of Small Business, Red Tape Reduction and Responsible for the Liquor Distribution Branch encourages British Columbians to celebrate local innovative entrepreneurs as Global Entrepreneurship Week comes to a close.

Enactment of the legislation

Bill 38, the Franchises Act, was introduced to the House today by the Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction and Responsible for the Liquor Distribution Branch Coralee Oakes.

Just in time for the holiday season, British Columbia's wine, beer and spirit producers will now be able to take their wares to artisanal markets throughout the province.

There’s nothing small about the impact small businesses have on B.C.’s economy according to the 2015 Small Businesses Profile.