Sobeys has been named as the operator of the independent liquor store in Battleford.
The provincial government announced the successful proponents of the request for proposal process for the 50 retail liquor store opportunities were announced Wednesday.
Other area liquor stores affected are Wilkie, which will be operated by Delta Co-op, and St. Walburg, which will be run by private owners, one of whom is a former employee of the government-owned outlet.
According to a press release the retail store permits are part of the transition to an expanded private retail system in the province. The 50 RSPs include 39 Saskatchewan Liquor and Game Authority liquor stores that are being converted to private opportunities and 11 new retail store permits.
The opening dates for these new retailers will vary, depending on factors like whether new buildings are being constructed or renovations to existing buildings are required. The RFP process began in July 2016.
According to the terms of the RFPs, locations in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton, Melville, Lloydminster, Moose Jaw and Kindersley must be opened within 18 months and all other communities within 12 months of the announcement date.
SLGA stores that are being converted to private retailers will continue to operate until the new locations are open for business.
The successful proponents must still complete the regulatory part of the application process in order to receive their RSP and begin operating.
Update: Sobeys spokesperson Keri Scobie says they could not yet confirm whether the SLGA currently operating in Battleford would remain the location of the new store. She adds, "We're really excited about the nine new stores opening, including the one in Battleford, but right now we're working through the next steps of the RFP process."
Location notwithstanding, what people can expect in the new Sobeys Liquor store, says Scobie, is a "modern store format," with an extensive walk-in cooler selection and a tasting and sampling selection.
