Prepare to see your alcohol bill increase. The Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) announced on November 8, 2024 that the vast majority of bottles will see their prices increase in the coming months, while a slight increase in its increase is planned.
Also read: I tested 5 inexpensive wines from the SAQ with more than 4.4/5 and my favorite costs $11.15
The SAQ wants to reassure its customers by keeping prices competitive. Concretely, the adjustments will remain rather modest. For example, a $15 wine will see its price increase by approximately $0.05, while a $45 spirit will cost $1.50 more. This increase will come into force from February 2, 2025.
However, a few bottles will be spared, namely “low price” wines, sold for less than $12. You will therefore be able to continue to find products at affordable prices.
This is the second such increase in less than a year. The state-owned company explains that the increase is used to cover operating costs and generate revenue for the Quebec government. “We now review our increase annually, so that it reflects the evolution of our costs and our financial context,” explained Édith Fillion, vice-president and chief financial officer at the SAQ.
Other components that influence the price of your favorite wine include sales and government taxes, supplier prices which include transportation, as well as excise and customs duties. Two price increases per year are permitted at the SAQ.
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