B.C. is making it possible for caterers to obtain a liquor licence, enabling catering companies to fully meet the food and beverage needs of their clients.

The new legislation, introduced today, will allow caterers to provide a wider range of services to their customers. This expansion of services will make it easier for clients to have liquor service at catered events, which will not only help support the industry, but also strengthen B.C.'s tourism appeal.

As well, the change will create a licensing framework that will allow dedicated catering businesses and existing licensed establishments - such as restaurants, hotels and conference centres - to provide liquor at catered events held at offsite locations.

Currently, people hosting an event serving liquor in B.C. need to get a special occasion licence, take the Serving-it-Right course, purchase and transport the liquor and accept liability for liquor service at the event. Catering companies cannot handle these responsibilities on behalf of their clients.

Quotes:

Minister Rich Coleman -

"This change just makes sense. It will give catering companies the ability to better serve their clients, boost tourism opportunities and support job creation in the hospitality sector."

Mark von Schellwitz, vice-president, Western Canada, Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association -

"Caterers are an important component of B.C.'s $10-billion food service industry and this is very welcome news. This legislation also creates more opportunities for existing hotels and restaurants. Our catering members and their clients have been advocating for this change for quite some time, and we applaud the government for listening and making these changes."

Debra Lykkemark, CEO, Culinary Capers Catering and Special Events -

"On behalf of B.C. catering companies, we want to thank the B.C. government for listening to our concerns and making amendments to the liquor licensing legislation, which will allow caterers to get liquor licences on behalf of their clients. This change will have a significant positive impact for the B.C. tourism and hospitality industry."

Quick Facts:

• The change will bring B.C. in line with every other province, support job creation and allow the tourism and hospitality sector to compete more effectively as a destination location for conferences, conventions and special events.
• Before the legislation is implemented, consultation will occur with the catering industry and hospitality associations, as well as with local governments and authorities.

Contact:

Sandra Steilo
Ministry of Energy and Mines
250 952-0617