Ontario to cut alcohol licensing fee for independent grocers

The provincial government is cutting the regulatory fee for independent grocers required to sell beer, cider and wine by $2,000 a year.

The province says there are now up to 208 grocery stores authorized to sell beer and cider across the province and 44 independent grocers are eligible for the fee reduction of 66%.

Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid was on hand for the announcement at Galleria Supermarket in Toronto today and says it's a first step in a plan to reduce fees and other costs for small- and medium-sized businesses.

He says the Liberal government is committed to reducing red tape because it will help create jobs and build a competitive business environment.