Save-On-Foods in Surrey is officially the first grocery store in B.C. to stock its shelves and start selling wine.

Save-On-Foods in Surrey was the first grocery store to start selling wine. (CBC)

"Today marks the first day we have opened up the market to change - giving businesses the green light to proceed," said Justice Minister Suzanne Anton.

"We expect to see more grocery locations pop up over the coming months and begin offering busy consumers the convenient shopping experience they've asked us for," she said.

New rules

Wine may be the story today, but April 1. also marks many other changes to the way alcoholic beverages are bought and sold in B.C.

Legislation that takes effect today will allow grocery stores to sell alcohol under the a store within a store model, — none of those stores have so far opened — liquor stores can extend their hours and retailers will buy booze at the same wholesale price.

As part of the liquor law changes 169 of the province's 196 liquor stores have extended their operating hours, with 134 stores open year-round on Sundays. About 153 stores will be open on Good Friday and 27 stores will be open on Easter Monday. All of the stores will be closed on Easter Sunday.

The top product price list from B.C. government



