Wednesday, October 24, 2007

The LCBO - Part 5

This is the final part of the LCBO series. In the last article, I pointed out things I liked and disliked about the LCBO. This final part will deal with some ideas I have on how to improve the LCBO or how to change the system.

The ideal solution in my mind would be to privatize the LCBO but as I stated my reasons in the first part of the series, I don't think that will be happening anytime soon.

So time to 'think outside the box'...

1. Remove Beer from the LCBO, I'd be tempted to add wine/vodka coolers or any beverages under 7% alcohol. The will force the LCBO to focus on Wine and Liquor and dedicate their efforts in both departments.

2. Allow regional based specialty wines to stores to be opened privately. Example of this is a wine store that sells nothing but French wines. This will increase the selection of wines available to Ontario consumers and leave the LCBO in public selling its general selection of wines. It will also allow regional experts to pass on their knowledge of a region to Ontario consumers; as I have to imagine that someone opening a regional wine store would be very familiar with the region.

3. Allow easy web-based shopping via the LCBO's website. You can order and pay online and then pickup your order at the LCBO of your choice. Have on the website a section called "Can't find a wine..." where you can click and send an e-mail with the wine you are looking for, and have staff that specializes in tracking down wines.

If anyone is reading this and has another suggestion, leave a comment and I will add it to the list.

Cheers!

Mark

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