More than 1,770 people objected to 7-Eleven’s applications for liquor licences in Ontario
7-Eleven Canada says it remains keen on selling booze at some five dozen Ontario locations, including two in Hamilton, despite fervent public objection.
The multinational convenience store chain filed liquor sales licence applications for 61 stores in February amid a push to couple dine-in meals with beer and wine.
But the fate of those plans now rests with an independent tribunal after 1,770 residents in proposed locations formally objected to the company's applications during a 28-day public notice period, said the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
A commission spokesperson said the Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT) will soon hear arguments from both objectors and 7-Eleven before attempting to resolve the disputes.
If the parties still disagree, LAT will deliberate and issue a decision with written reasons that explain why a certain decision was reached," said Raymond Kahnert.
The two locations in Hamilton - a gas station and convenience store at 415 Melvin Ave. and a convenience store at 622 Upper Wellington St. - received a total of 91 formal objections.
In March, council railed against the proposals and said 7-Eleven's bid to serve booze indoors could prompt other convenience stores to follow suit.
Looking at this as a business plan makes a great deal of sense, but looking at it from a community perspective, it's absolutely a nightmare," Coun. Sam Merulla said at the time.
The proposal also came under fire from a union that represents many of Ontario's liquor store workers, who said in March the plans could hurt small businesses and expose children to intoxicated people.
7-Eleven Canada said in a statement its locations would follow the same rules as other licensed establishments in Ontario. Trained servers would sell a selection of craft beer and wine alongside hot food offered during limited hours and in designated areas.
Our customers have told us they want the convenience of beer and wine service with their dine in meals," the company said. We are working collaboratively with the AGCO and municipal authorities to process our applications."
Any establishment in Ontario that applies for a liquor sales licence requires approval from the AGCO and municipal public health, fire and building officials.
Sebastian Bron is a reporter at The Spectator. sbron@thespec.com