Ontario’s Premier is expected to announce Thursday the government’s intent to expand sales of beer and wine.

Doug Ford promised during the 2018 election campaign to allow beer and wine to be sold in convenience stores and grocery stores across the province.

Via social media Wednesday, Ford hinted that the province was poised to follow through on that pledge.

The Ford PCs ran into issues fulfilling that campaign pledge, as The Beer Store had a 10-year deal with the province, and its multinational owners threatened legal action if Ford followed through.

That deal provided for a limited number of grocery stores to sell beer and wine, with The Beer Store remaining the solitary retailer permitted to sell 12- and 24-packs of beer.

This new arrangement is expected to see The Beer Store continue its role as recycler and distributor, while, grocery stores, convenience stores and gas stations which sell food can apply for a licence to sell beer, wine and premixed cocktails with sales to begin in 2026.