News

ANBL releases second quarter draft results for 2024-2025

October 30, 2024

Fredericton, NB - NB Liquor released its unaudited results for the second quarter ended September 29, 2024. Total product sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $154.5 million, an increase of 2.5 per cent compared to the same period last year (13 weeks). Net income for the quarter was $58.3 million, 0.4 per cent lower than prior year's second quarter net income of $58.5 million.

Key product sales trends for the second quarter (July 1, 2024 to September 29, 2024) compared to the second quarter last year were (July 3, 2023 to October 1, 2023):

sales of coolers and cider increased 10.8 per cent, up $2.6 million
spirit sales increased 2.5 per cent, up $0.8 million
beer sales increased 0.8 per cent, up $0.5 million and
wine sales decreased 0.5 per cent, down $0.1 million

ANBL realized year-over-year sales growth in its second quarter, with increased traffic in its corporate store locations and year-over-year sales increases through both its Agent and Grocery partners. The Coolers & Ciders category led the year-over-year category growth in Q2, due to a continued focus on eliminating category seasonality.

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

In case you missed it

Top three in workplace benefits

ANBL was named a finalist in the 2024 Workplace Benefit Awards (Benefits Canada), recognizing the accomplishments of Canadian employers in supporting their employees’ physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. ANBL was one of three finalists in the Drug/Benefits Plan Innovation category.

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

ANBL team members and customers have donated more than $84,839 in food and cash amounts to New Brunswick food banks this quarter.

ANBL expands Safe Ride program for 2024 festival season

ANBL’s Safe Ride program, which provides a free ride home to patrons attending 19+ events across the province, expanded to sponsor 22 events in 14 communities over the course of the 2024 festival season. Festival attendees in St. Andrews, Moncton, Caraquet, Sussex, Grand Falls, Shediac, Saint John, Petit Rocher, Perth-Andover, St. Martins, Bertrand, Fredericton, and Plaster Rock engaged with our Safe Ride team.

The ANBL Safe Ride sponsorship program is a key pillar in ANBLs corporate social responsibility strategy, promoting responsible consumption and eliminating impaired driving. Learn more here.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 48 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 600 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2024-2025 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Tanya Greer
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL releases first quarter draft results for 2024-2025

July 30, 2024

Fredericton, NB - ANBL released its unaudited results for the first quarter ended June 30, 2024. Total product sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $140.0 million, an increase of 4.3 per cent compared to the same period last year (13 weeks). Net income for the quarter was $49.3 million, 3.6 per cent lower than prior year's first quarter net income of $51.1 million.

Key product sales trends for the first quarter (April 1, 2024 to June 30, 2024 ) compared to the first quarter last year (April 3, 2023 to July 2, 2023) were:

wine sales decreased 0.9 per cent, down $0.3 million
spirit sales increased 2.0 per cent, up $0.6 million
beer sales increased 5.5 per cent, up $3.1 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 11.3 per cent, up $2.2 million

ANBL realized year-over-year sales growth in its first quarter across all of its sales channels, driven by the addition of new Agent partners within the Province and strong sales across many of its corporate store locations. The Beer and Coolers & Ciders categories led the year-over-year category growth in Q1.

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

In case you missed it

ANBL provides Safe Rides and nourishes communities in 2023-2024

ANBL is proud to share the results of our corporate social responsibility efforts for the 2023-24 fiscal year in the areas of responsible consumption and food security. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, ANBL sponsored over 20 events in a dozen communities with its Safe Ride Program, which provides a free ride home to patrons attending 19+ events across the province. ANBL engaged with 92,000 patrons from around the province, and provided a free safe ride home to over 16,000 people, or 17% of all attendees.

For the 2024 festival season, ANBL Safe Ride is expanding to sponsor 22 events in 14 communities: St. Andrews, Moncton, Caraquet, Sussex, Grand Falls, Shediac, Saint John, Petit Rocher, Edmundston, Perth-Andover, St. Martins, Bertrand, Fredericton, and Plaster Rock. Learn more here.

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

In the area of community support, ANBL team members and customers have donated over $127,000 in food and cash donations to New Brunswick food banks this quarter, including over 1,000 pounds of food.

About ANBL

Media Contact:
Angela Bosse
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL provides Safe Rides and Nourishes Communities in 2023-2024

April 30, 2024

Fredericton, NB - ANBL is proud to share the results of our corporate social responsibility efforts for the 2023-24 fiscal year in the areas of responsible consumption and food security.

Safe Ride Sponsorship

In the 2023-24 fiscal year, ANBL sponsored over 20 events in a dozen communities with its Safe Ride Program, which provides a free ride home to patrons attending 19+ events across the province.

This year, ANBL engaged with 92,000 patrons from around the province, and provided a free safe ride home to over 16,000 people, or 17% of all attendees. ANBL team members worked onsite at events for a total of 365 hours, as well as team members volunteering an additional 320 hours.

The ANBL Safe Ride sponsorship program is a key pillar in ANBLs corporate social responsibility strategy, promoting responsible consumption and eliminating impaired driving.

As we prepare for the 2024 festival season, ANBL Safe Ride is expanding to sponsor 22 events in 14 communities: St. Andrews, Moncton, Caraquet, Sussex, Grand Falls, Shediac, Saint John, Petit Rocher, Edmundston, Perth-Andover, St. Martins, Bertrand, Fredericton, and Plaster Rock. For the full list of events, visit anbl.com/saferide.

Food Security

In the area of community support, ANBL and its customers donated over $77,900 in food and cash donations in the fourth quarter, bringing the annual total value of all donations contributed to food banks around the province to $315,411. Through our partnership with Food Depot Alimentaire, these donations are distributed to over 60 food banks across the province, with donations staying in the communities in which they were given.

ANBL team members donated almost 3,000 pounds in food donations to New Brunswick food banks during the 2023-24 fiscal year. We thank ANBL customers who generously donated to this cause through our prompt at cash campaigns, allowing us to promote food security in our communities and support New Brunswickers in need.

In case you missed it

MADD Canada and ANBL Bring Sober Driving Message to Students Across NB

MADD Canada’s School Program is back in New Brunswick to deliver its life-saving sober driving message to students, with support from Alcool NB Liquor (ANBL). MADD Canada’s School Program is delivered to students in Grades 7 – 12. The educational videos engage young people in a realistic conversation about what is truly at stake when someone drives impaired and equips them with the knowledge and inspiration to never drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver. Learn more here.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 48 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 490 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2023-2024 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL releases fourth quarter results and unaudited year end results for 2023-2024

April 30, 2024

Fredericton, NB - NB Liquor released its unaudited (draft) results for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2024. Total product sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $107.0 million, an increase of 3.0 per cent compared to the same period last year (13 weeks). Net income for the quarter was $35.7 million, 1.2 per cent lower than prior year's fourth quarter net income of $36.1 million.

Key product sales trends for the fourth quarter (January 1st, 2024 to March 31st, 2024) compared to the fourth quarter last year were (January 2nd, 2023 to April 2nd, 2023):

wine sales increased 2.6 per cent, up $0.6 million
spirit sales increased 0.2 per cent, up $0.1 million
beer sales increased 2.7 per cent, up $1.2 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 11.3 per cent, up $1.2 million

ANBL realized annual year-over-year sales growth across all of its sales channels, driven by the addition of new Agent partners within the Province. Coolers and Ciders continued to lead the year-over-year category growth in Q4, through the ongoing evolution of year-round occasions for all consumers.

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

“I’m very proud of the ANBL team’s commitment to serving New Brunswickers,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL’s President and CEO. “We have continued to support our channel strategy, focusing on providing our customers with the right products in the right place at the right time, and saw another year of record sales, surpassing our $523.5 million sales target for the 2023-24 fiscal year."

Preliminary, draft and unaudited total sales for the 52-week fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 were $533.4 million, up $10.2 million, or 1.9%, from the previous 52-week fiscal year, which ended April 2, 2023. Preliminary, draft and unaudited net earnings for the year were $200.7 million, up 0.4% compared to fiscal year 2022-2023’s results of $199.8 million. Audited statements will be included in the corporation’s annual report.

In case you missed it

Safe Ride Program

In the 2023-24 fiscal year, ANBL sponsored over 20 events in a dozen communities with its Safe Ride Program, which provides a free ride home to patrons attending 19+ events across the province. This year, ANBL engaged with 92,000 patrons from around the province, and provided a free safe ride home to over 16,000 people, or 17% of all attendees. ANBL team members worked onsite at events for a total of 365 hours, as well as team members volunteering an additional 320 hours.

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

In the area of community support, ANBL and its customers donated over $77,900 in food and cash donations in the fourth quarter, bringing the annual total value of all donations contributed to food banks around the province to $315,411. ANBL team members donated almost 3,000 pounds in food donations to New Brunswick food banks during the 2023-24 fiscal year.

About ANBL

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL releases third quarter results for 2023-2024

January 30, 2024

Fredericton, NB - ANBL released its unaudited (draft) results for the third quarter ended December 31, 2023. Total product sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $141.5 million, an increase of 2.8 per cent compared to the same period last year (13 weeks). Net income for the quarter was $55.3 million, 2.4 per cent higher than prior year's third quarter net income of $54.0 million.

Key product sales trends for the third quarter (October 2nd, 2023 to December 31st, 2023) compared to the third quarter last year (October 3rd, 2022 to January 1st, 2023) were:

wine sales increased 1.4 per cent, up $0.5 million
spirit sales increased 1.9 per cent, up $0.7 million
beer sales increased 1.8 per cent, up $1.0 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 12.5 per cent, up $1.7 million

Coolers and Ciders continue to demonstrate a strong performance, through the identification of new occasions and innovation launches to reduce the historical impacts of seasonality on the portfolio. The same category performance is being realized in the Local Producer channel. In-store traffic continues to trend below prior year.

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

In case you missed it
MADD Canada and ANBL bring sober driving message to students across NB

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

In the area of community support, ANBL team members have donated over $45,000 in food and cash donations this quarter, bringing the total value of all donations contributed to food banks around the province to $237,499.

About ANBL

ANBL is a provincial Crown Corporation responsible for the purchase, importation, distribution and retail activity for all alcoholic beverages in the province. It serves the public and licensees through 40 corporate retail outlets, 90 private agency store outlets, 96 local producer agency stores, and 68 grocery stores selling wine, cider and beer, as of April 3, 2023. Its product portfolio comprises more than 2,300 products, including wines, spirits, beers and other products, such as coolers and cider products, and locally produced alcoholic beverages.

Over the course of the last 48 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs approximately 480 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2023-2024 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

MADD Canada And Alcool NB Liquor Bring Sober Driving Message to Students Across New Brunswick

November 10, 2023

Moncton, NB - MADD Canada’s School Program is back in New Brunswick to deliver its life-saving sober driving message to students, with generous support from Alcool NB Liquor (ANBL).

MADD Canada’s School Program is delivered to students in Grades 7 – 12. The educational videos engage young people in a realistic conversation about what is truly at stake when someone drives impaired and equips them with the knowledge and inspiration to never drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver.

New this year, schools can choose one of three films to be presented to students: Final Play, No Tomorrow or Over the Edge in English and Le Pacte, Précipice ou Détour in French. The films are revamped School Program presentations that include new educational components to allow for more hands-on learning with students. Each video presentation features a fictionalized story, followed by real-life stories from victims of impaired driving.

The School Program tour of New Brunswick kicks off today with the first of 56 presentations being sponsored by School Program Provincial Sponsor, ANBL. Students at école Champlain in Moncton will view the French presentation, Le Pacte.

“Between the realistic fictional storylines that feature young people having to make choices about alcohol, drugs and driving, and the impactful personal stories of real-life victims of impaired driving, our School Program delivers a powerful and unforgettable message,” said MADD Canada National President Tanya Hansen Pratt. “Most importantly, the program helps young people understand that they have the power to prevent impaired driving.”

Thanks to ANBL’s support, thousands of students from across the Province will see the presentation and be part of the conversation about reducing impaired driving and keeping themselves and their peers safe.

“ANBL is proud to be a partner of MADD Canada, supporting the incredible work they do to educate our youth on the harms of impaired driving. We are dedicated to our commitment to safety and promoting responsible consumption, and bringing the sober driving message to students is an important part of our social responsibility strategy,” said ANBL President and CEO Lori Stickles.

Road crashes are the number one cause of death among Canadian youth, and alcohol, cannabis and/or drugs are involved in more than half of those crashes. MADD Canada’s School Program strives to reduce impaired driving among young people by delivering a powerful message about the impact of impaired driving and equipping students with the knowledge and motivation to prevent it.

All School Programs will be available in the traditional assembly format, as well as classroom or virtual formats, depending on each school’s preference. Following the presentations, schools receive an Educators’ Guide and School Kits with additional scenarios to help teachers continue the sober driving conversation throughout the whole school year. To learn more about MADD Canada’s School Program and see clips from the presentations, visit maddyouth.ca

About MADD Canada

MADD Canada (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) is a national, charitable organization that is committed to stopping impaired driving and supporting the victims of this violent crime. With volunteer-driven groups in almost 100 communities across Canada, MADD Canada aims to offer support services to victims, heighten awareness of the dangers of impaired driving and save lives and prevent injuries on our roads. To learn more, visit madd.ca.

About ANBL

ANBL is a provincial Crown corporation responsible for the purchase, importation, distribution and retail activity for all alcoholic beverages in the province. It serves the public and licensees through 40 corporate retail outlets, 89 private agency store outlets, 89 local producer agency stores, and 67 grocery stores selling wine, cider and beer, as of April 3, 2022. Its product portfolio comprises more than 2,455 products, including wines, spirits, beers and other products, such as coolers and cider products, and locally produced alcoholic beverages. Over the course of the last 47 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs approximately 460 people. In addition to its mandate as the distributor of beverage alcohol in the province, ANBL also contributes to New Brunswick communities through its Corporate Social Responsibility programming, which includes safe selling and the Check 30 ID program, sponsorship of events through the SafeRide Program, and a focus on fundraising for food security through a partnership with the New Brunswick Food Depot.

For more information, please contact:
Dawn Regan, MADD Chief Operating Officer, 1-800-665-6233, ext. 223 or dregan@madd.ca
ANBL Media Relations media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL releases second quarter results for 2023-2024

October 30, 2023

Fredericton, NB - ANBL released its unaudited (draft) results for the second quarter that ended October 1, 2023. Total product sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $150.7 million, an increase of 1.8 per cent compared to the same period last year (13 weeks). Net income for the quarter was $58.5 million, 2.0 per cent higher than prior year's second quarter net income of $57.4 million.

Key product sales trends for the second quarter (July 3rd, 2023 to October 1st, 2023) compared to the second quarter last year were (July 4th, 2022 to October 2nd, 2022):

Wine sales increased 2.6 per cent, up $0.8 million
Spirit sales increased 0.9 per cent, up $0.3 million
Beer sales increased 1.2 per cent, up $0.8 million
Sales of coolers and cider increased 3.8 per cent, up $0.9 million

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

In Case You Missed It

ANBL’s Warehouse celebrates 500 days with no lost time injury

On September 7, its Warehouse team reached 500 days without a lost time Injury, an achievement that shows the team’s dedication to ANBL’s Environmental Health & Safety Program and operational excellence. The key elements of ANBL’s Environmental Health & Safety Program and operational processes that contributed to the achievement of this milestone include near miss reporting, the shared responsibility of looking out for one another, and utilizing safe work techniques. More information can be found here.

2023 Board of Directors Scholarship and Bursary Recipients

To support the education and continuous learning ambitions of our teams and their families, ANBL and CNB offer a Board of Directors Scholarship and Bursary program every year. Applications are open to all team members, and funds can be used for themselves or family members who are planning to pursue education opportunities. More information can be found here.

Safe Ride Program

During the first two quarters of the fiscal year, ANBL sponsored 14 events through the ANBL Safe Ride Program. The Safe Ride program is a stress-free way of getting home from ANBL sponsored events throughout New Brunswick via shuttle busses, taxi chits, hired cars, etc. ANBL Safe Ride was present at: Paddlefest, East Coast Bev Con, FestiVin, Grand Falls Potato Festival, Big Axe Beer Festival, Festival de Mollusques, Boxcar Country Music Festival, Blues d’la Baie, Area 506, Festival Royal, Festival Acadian, Fundy Sea Shanty Festival, KV Music Festival and Harvest Music Festival.

ANBL’s Safe Ride sponsorship spans over 12 New Brunswick communities. During the first two fiscal quarters, approximately 11,534 festival patrons utilized the ANBL Safe Ride service.

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

In the area of community support, ANBL team members have donated 1,275 pounds of food, and over $187,000 in cash donations have been raised to date, bringing the total value of all donations contributed to food banks around the province to over $190,000.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 47 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs approximately 460 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2022-2023 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

Congratulations to ANBL and CNB’s 2023 Board of Directors Scholarship and Bursary Recipients

October 6, 2023

Fredericton, NB - To support the education and continuous learning ambitions of our teams and their families, ANBL and CNB offer a Board of Directors Scholarship and Bursary program every year.

Applications are open to all team members, and funds can be used for themselves or family members who are planning to pursue education opportunities.

This year, the Board of Directors for ANBL and CNB are very proud to be supporting the following students with bursaries / scholarships as they begin their year at post-secondary institutions in various fields of study:

Abby Dubé
Abigail Sears
Audrey St-Pierre
Drew Duffy
Emma Gallant
Lauren Fuller
Meera Joshi
Robyn Arseneault
Shelby Arseneault
Sophie Dubé
Riley Oram
Mintra Taylor
Juliana Richards
Alex-Andrea Piercy
Chris Albert

ANBL and CNB offer congratulations to all this years’ recipients and wish them well in their studies.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart slingshots into New Brunswick to launch Romero Distilling products in ANBL stores across New Brunswick

September 21, 2023

Fredericton, NB - Hall of Fame wrestler, Canadian Walk of Fame Inductee, and Romero Rum brand ambassador will visit ANBL on September 23 at 40 East Point Way in Saint John to help promote the launch of Romero Rum in New Brunswick. He will be at the store to meet fans and sign bottles.

Romero Distilling Co. is a boutique luxury rum producer based in Calgary, AB. Their international award-winning rums are made with New Brunswick’s Crosby's molasses and glacier fed water from the Rockies. Romero Rum will be available at ANBL stores provincewide later this month in time for the launch event.

"We are so excited to be launching in New Brunswick and to have Bret 'Hitman' Hart as part of our launch team," said Romero Distilling Co-Founder & President, Tomas Romero. "Bret is the perfect person to help us spread the word about our rums. We can't wait to share our products with the people of New Brunswick."

The launch event will take place on September 23rd from 10am – 1pm at ANBL, 40 East Point Way, in Saint John.

For more information about Romero Distilling Co., visit: https://romerodistilling.com/

For more information about Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart’s ANBL store visit, please visit: Romero Rum (anbl.com)

Media Contact:
Marie-Andrée Bolduc
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL’s Warehouse Celebrates 500 Days with No Lost Time Injury

September 7, 2023

Fredericton, NB - ANBL is proud to celebrate a major milestone this week. On September 7, its Warehouse team reached 500 days without a lost time Injury, an achievement that shows the team’s dedication to ANBL’s Environmental Health & Safety Program and operational excellence.

“At ANBL, we are committed to creating and maintaining a culture of safety that protects the well-being of our employees, visitors, and the greater community,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL President & CEO. “ANBL’s Board of Directors and I are extremely proud of every team member involved in maintaining the health, safety and operation of the warehouse and for achieving this huge milestone. We want to applaud and thank the team for their hard work and diligence towards safety every day.”

The key elements of ANBL’s Environmental Health & Safety Program and operational processes that contributed to the achievement of this milestone include near miss reporting, the shared responsibility of looking out for one another, and utilizing safe work techniques.

“I want to congratulate the ANBL warehouse team for achieving 500 days without a lost-time injury,” said Tim Petersen, WorkSafe NB President and CEO. “Their commitment to proactive safety practices and taking care of each other is truly commendable and sets a shining example for the entire province – and helps us get that much closer to achieving our vision of making New Brunswick the safest place to work.”

In the last three years, the Warehouse team has been active in safety discussions through near miss reporting. Through these discussions, ANBL implemented many warehouse improvements to reduce the risk of injury including:

Having an Occupational Therapist visit the site to provide coaching on safe working and lifting techniques.
Installing equipment, like directional lights on the forklifts, a pallet stacker/dispenser and guards on mechanical wrappers.
Implementing improved procedures such as the wearing of high visibility clothing, proper PPE application and loading dock safety processes.
And effectively organizing the workspace of the forklift battery maintenance area.

“We understand that the roles of ANBL’s Warehouse team may involve tasks that could pose risks if not performed correctly or with the necessary precautions,” said Jamie Agnew, CUPE 963 President. “On behalf of CUPE 963, I want to thank and congratulate the Warehouse team on this important milestone and for taking an active role in ensuring individual safety as well as the safety of fellow colleagues. Everyone deserves to come home safe and healthy at the end of their workday and the teamwork and dedication to upholding the highest standards of health and safety at ANBL help make that happen.”

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 47 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs approximately 480 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2023-2024 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL RELEASES FIRST QUARTER RESULTS FOR 2023-2024

July 31, 2023

Fredericton, NB - NB Liquor released its unaudited (draft) results for the first quarter ended July 2, 2023. Total product sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $134.2 million, an increase of 0.4 per cent compared to the same period last year (13 weeks). Net income for the quarter was $51.2 million, 2.1 per cent below prior year's first quarter net income of $52.3 million.

Key product sales trends for the first quarter (April 3rd, 2023 to July 2nd, 2023) compared to the first quarter last year (April 4th, 2022 to July 3rd, 2022) were:

wine sales increased 0.9 per cent, up $0.2 million
spirit sales increased 2.0 per cent, up $0.6 million
beer sales decreased 1.2 per cent, down $0.7 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 2.4 per cent, up $0.5 million

This first quarter saw local cooler and cider product sales increase by 31% and 11% respectively compared to the first quarter of last year. The increase demonstrates the "Buy Local" movement is continuing to thrive in our province through having the right product in the right place, at the right time.

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

In Case You Missed It

Safe Ride Program

During the first quarter of this fiscal year, ANBL sponsored four major events through its Safe Ride program, providing patrons with a free ride home and alleviating concerns around impaired driving. Between the Grand Falls Potato Fest, Paddlefest, East Coast Bev Conn, and Festivin, approximately 1,395 patrons took advantage of the free Safe Ride transportation provided.

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy, ANBL has become a champion of food security by partnering with the New Brunswick Food Depot, an organization that serves food banks throughout our province. In the 2022-2023 fiscal year, ANBL raised $259,952 in food and cash donations, or the equivalent of 136,875 meals, through the efforts of its incredible team and the generosity of its customers. Check out ANBL’s Food Security Impact Report for the 2022-2023 fiscal year, here.

ANBL named finalist for the Retail Council of Canada’s Excellence in Retailing Award 2023

ANBL was named finalist for the Retail Council of Canada's Excellence in Retailing Awards for 2023, which recognizes outstanding achievements and leadership in the Canadian retail industry across various categories. ANBL was a finalist in the Philanthropic Leadership category for Food Security focused community engagement strategy, and the Retail Marketing category for its 2022 Holiday Campaign. Read more, here.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 47 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 480 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2023-2024 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL and Cannabis New Brunswick Named Finalists for the Retail Council of Canada's Excellence in Retailing Awards 2023

May 17, 2023

Fredericton, NB - ANBL and Cannabis NB are excited to share that both companies have been named finalists for the Retail Council of Canada's Excellence in Retailing Awards for 2023. The awards recognize outstanding achievements and leadership in the Canadian retail industry across various categories.

Cannabis NB is a finalist in two categories, including the Pop-Up Experience and Design for its container village pop-up which was part of the Area 506 Container Village, and Retail Marketing for the Good to Know campaign launched last fall. ANBL is a finalist in the Philanthropic Leadership category for Food Security focused community engagement strategy, and the Retail Marketing category for its 2022 Holiday Campaign.

"We are thrilled to be finalists for the Retail Council of Canada’s Excellence in Retailing Awards," said Lori Stickles, CEO of ANBL and Cannabis NB. "It's an honor to be recognized among Canada's top retailers for our innovative approaches to engaging with our customers and our communities."

Cannabis NB's Pop-Up Experience and Design nomination recognizes the innovative and engaging experience created by the Summer Container Village Pop-up. This project was the first of its kind in the Canadian cannabis industry, and allowed CNB to serve over 5,500 people over the summer, combat stereotypes associated with the legal cannabis market, and demonstrate our great customer experience to a new audience. The Good to Know campaign from Cannabis NB educated customers on the realities of illicit product, and encourage them to seek out safe, regulated products at Cannabis NB. The campaign used innovative media while adhering to the marketing regulations of the legal cannabis industry.

ANBL’s Philanthropic Leadership nomination recognizes its commitment to developing a stakeholder-driven community engagement strategy, which focuses on building meaningful relationships with local organizations to address the needs of the community. This strategy’s success allowed ANBL’s philanthropic efforts focused on food security to have higher public awareness and increased employee support which in turn increased the community contribution. ANBL's Retail Marketing nomination for the 2022 Holiday Campaign highlights the company's ability to create a memorable shopping experience during a busy and competitive time of year. The wide product selection and competitive price points helped meet customers' needs and allowed ANBL to achieve record-breaking results.

The winners of the Retail Council of Canada's Excellence in Retailing Awards will be announced at the awards ceremony on May 30, 2023.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 47 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 472 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks (fiscal 2021-2022 was a 53-week year). The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2022-2023 is a 52-week year.

About Cannabis NB

Cannabis NB, the only legal retailer of recreational cannabis for the province of New Brunswick, manages retail cannabis sales for the province, providing a range of safe, legal products. The core focus of its retail model is youth protection, reducing the illicit market, education, and safety. Cannabis NB has 25 stores in 18 communities. Cannabis NB’s results are reported on a retail reporting cycle, which is typically a 52-week year. Retail reporting will result in a 53-week year occurring every 5 to 6 years. Fiscal 2022-2023 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Angela Bosse
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL releases fourth quarter results and unaudited year end results for 2022-2023

May 2, 2023

Fredericton, NB - ANBL released its fourth quarter and unaudited year end results ended April 2, 2023. Total product sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $103.9 million, a decrease of 3.2 per cent compared to the same period last year (14 weeks). Net income for the quarter was $35.9 million, 6.1 per cent below prior year's fourth quarter net income of $38.3 million.

Key product sales trends for the fourth quarter (January 2nd, 2023 to April 2nd, 2023) compared to the fourth quarter last year were (December 27th, 2021 to April 3rd, 2022):

wine sales decreased 9.0 per cent, down $2.2 million
spirit sales decreased 2.6 per cent, down $0.7 million
beer sales decreased 2.1 per cent, down $0.9 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 4.5 per cent, up $0.5 million

ANBL’s Total Product Sales reached record levels, driven by growth in the Spirits and Coolers & Ciders categories. Consumers continued showing preference for premium Spirits products, with whisky continuing as a top performing subcategory, outpacing both volume and revenue targets. Beer sales declined year-over-year, in-line with national trends.

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

“I’m very proud of the ANBL team’s commitment to serving New Brunswickers,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL’s President and CEO. “We have continued to navigate the changing environment, serve our customers with excellence, focus on our foundational elements, and saw another year of record sales throughout our channels, surpassing our $514 million sales target for the 2022-23 fiscal year.”

Preliminary, draft and unaudited sales for the 52-week fiscal year ended April 2, 2023 were $523.3 million, up $3.4 million, or 0.6%, from the previous 53-week fiscal year, which ended April 3, 2022. Preliminary, draft and unaudited net earnings for the year were $199.6 million, up 0.5% compared to fiscal year 2021-2022’s results of $198.7 million. Audited statements will be included in the corporation’s annual report.

In case you missed it

ANBL and Local Alcohol Producers commit to ongoing committee meetings

ANBL and the Local Alcohol Producer Advisory Committee held their third meeting on January 10, 2023. During this committee meeting, comprised of ANBL and representatives from all categories of local alcohol producers in the province, there was commitment by all parties that the committee continue beyond its original proposed one-year term. More information can be found here.

Safe Ride Program

During the final quarter of this fiscal year, ANBL sponsored two major events showcasing the Safe Ride program, providing patrons with a free ride home, and alleviating concerns around impaired driving. At the World Pond Hockey Tournament, approximately 1800 patrons took advantage of the Safe Ride buses provided for free, and at the Fredericton Craft Beer Festival, over 600 event patrons received a free taxi ride home.

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

In the area of community support, ANBL team members executed an additional 95 hours of volunteer work in their communities, in addition to the 583 hours already contributed this year. Also, continuing in the fight against food insecurity, ANBL donated over $62,000 in cash and food donations to food banks around the province.

About ANBL

Media Contact:
Angela Bosse
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL and Craft Alcohol Producers commit to ongoing committee meetings

February 7, 2023

Fredericton, NB - ANBL and the Craft Alcohol Producer Advisory Committee held their third meeting on January 10, 2023. During this committee meeting, comprised of ANBL and representatives from all categories of local alcohol producers in the province, there was commitment by all parties that the committee continue beyond its original proposed one-year term.

“As we progress with these meetings, we have seen a valuable level of discussion between all members that will move the local alcohol industry forward in a sustainable way,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL President and CEO.

ANBL also committed to providing a consolidated membership to all NB Craft members to its data sharing program. Having daily insight into all of ANBL product attributes, inventory and sales data will help local craft producers make good business practices.

Other topics for discussion during the meeting included a detailed look at how ANBL supports the local craft industry and identifying any gaps between ANBL and the producer’s understanding of the overarching goals. A representative from Sobeys also provided an update on the alcohol presence in the grocery chain across the province.

“We believe having regular access to inventory and sales data will provide us with wide knowledge of sales trends by category, price etc.,” said Lloyd Chambers, President of Craft Alcohol NB. “We can then adjust our own way of doing business in order to follow market trends.”

As New Brunswick’s major liquor retailer, ANBL supports the continued growth of the craft alcohol industry while being focused on sector-wide sustainability that brings the greatest value to all New Brunswickers. The creation of the Local Producer Advisory Committee marks the start of a new relationship based on clear communication, collaboration, and mutual respect.

Membership of the Local Producer Advisory Committee was chosen through an application process held in the spring of 2022. The membership includes ANBL, along with representatives from three New Brunswick craft brewers, a macro brewer and one representative each from distilleries, wineries, cideries, cooler producers, and Craft Alcohol NB. The committee meets on a quarterly basis. More information about the committee is available here.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 47 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs approximately 460 people.

Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2022-2023 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL releases third quarter results for 2022-2023

January 31, 2023

Fredericton, NB - ANBL released its unaudited results for the third quarter ended January 1, 2023. Total product sales for the quarter were $137.7 million, an increase of 1.8 per cent compared to the same period last year. Net income for the quarter was $54.0 million, 9.2 per cent above prior year's third quarter net income of $49.5 million.

Key product sales trends for the third quarter (October 3rd, 2022 to January 1st, 2023) compared to the third quarter last year were:

wine sales increased 0.8 per cent, up $0.3 million
spirit sales increased 2.0 per cent, up $0.7 million
beer sales increased 2.1 per cent, up $1.1 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 3.5 per cent, up $0.4 million

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

In case you missed it

Opening of agency store in Elsipogtog

As part of its First Nations Agency Store Pilot Program, ANBL in partnership with the community of Elsipogtog opened its doors of the Fire and Ice Agency store. The Elsipogtog First Nation ANBL agency store follows the same guidelines, operational structure, retail standards and social responsibility requirements as existing ANBL agency stores across the province. More information can be found here.

Safe Ride Program

During this quarter, ANBL sponsored two major events showcasing the Safe Ride program, providing patrons with a free ride home, and alleviating concerns around impaired driving. At the World Wine and Food Expo, approximately 3,000 patrons took advantage of the Safe Ride buses provided for free, and at the New Brunswick Spirits Festival, 533 event patrons received a free taxi ride home.

Food Security and Corporate Social Responsibility

In the area of community support, ANBL team members executed 583 hours of volunteer work in their communities just in this past quarter. Over $9000 in cash and food donations were contributed to food banks around the province, bringing that year-to-date value to over $176,000.

About ANBL

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

NB Liquor releases second quarter results for 2022-2023

November 2, 2022

Fredericton, NB - NB Liquor released its unaudited results for the second quarter ended October 2nd, 2022. Total product sales for the quarter were $148 million, an increase of 0.2 per cent compared to the same period last year. Net income for the quarter was $57.4 million, 3.2 per cent below prior year's second quarter net income of $59.3 million.

Key product sales trends for the second quarter (July 4th, 2022 to October 2nd, 2022) compared to the second quarter last year were:

wine sales increased 0.1 per cent, up $0.02 million
spirit sales increased 1.5 per cent, up $0.5 million
beer sales decreased 1.4 per cent, down $0.9 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 3.4 per cent, up $0.8 million

ANBL continues to provide significant returns to the province even as industry trends indicate customers are spending increasingly in restaurants, bars, theatre and through travelling resulting in a 24% increase in licensee sales over the previous year.

More information about the quarter results can be found here.

In case you missed it

Board of Directors Scholarship and Bursary

ANBL’s Board of Directors awarded bursaries and scholarships to support the education and continuous learning ambitions of ANBL and CNB’s teams and their families. More information on the program is available here.

Local Producer Advisory Committee

As part of its multi-year Local Producer Strategy, ANBL held its second Local Producer Advisory Committee meeting on September 27, 2022. This committee, comprised of ANBL and representatives from all categories of local alcohol producers in the province, was established as a collaborative forum to share information, hear feedback from producers, and share industry best practices. More information about the committee can be found here.

Corporate Social Responsibility

So far this year, ANBL has sponsored 15 events in 11 communities, offering the Safe Ride program which gives a free ride home to festival patrons at events where alcohol is served. These events provided ANBL employees and volunteers an opportunity to engage with patrons and designated drivers on site. More information about the Safe Ride program can be found here: SafeRide (anbl.com)

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 46 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 485 people. Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. Fiscal 2022-2023 is a 52-week year.

Media Contact:

Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

Elsipogtog First Nation Opens ANBL Agency Store

October 20, 2022

Fredericton, NB –ANBL is pleased to launch the First Nations Agency Store Pilot Program in partnership with the community of Elsipogtog. The community opened its first ANBL agency store on Thursday, October 20 in the Elsipogtog commercial retail centre, located at 29 Big Cove Rd, Elsipogtog First Nation, NB.

“This pilot project compliments the existing products and services we offer in the Elsipogtog commercial retail centre, the Fire and Ice Inc. agency store will create employment and generate revenue as we strive to remedy the housing shortage”, said Lynn Francis, Director of the Economic Development Office of Elsipogtog Community.

“The launch of this pilot program represents a unique opportunity for Elsipogtog First Nation and our province as we look to develop our beverage alcohol industry responsibly,” said Aboriginal Affairs Minister Arlene Dunn. “I congratulate everyone involved as you begin this exciting venture.”

“I’m very pleased to see the launch of this pilot program within the community of Elsipogtog,” said Lori Stickles, President and CEO of ANBL. “This agency store has served to create jobs, improve convenience for the community, and continue to develop the beverage alcohol industry in a safe and responsible manner.”

The First Nations Agency Store Pilot Program is designed to create a partnership between ANBL and select First Nation communities through the provision of improved customer service and an enhanced shopping experience. After one year in operation, ANBL will assess the program and evaluate the possibility of expanding the program to other First Nation communities in the province.

Once fully operational, the store will be open from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 9 pm and on Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm. More information about the store and its presence in the community can be found here.

The Elsipogtog First Nation ANBL agency store follows the same guidelines, operational structure, retail standards and social responsibility requirements as existing ANBL agency stores across the province.

About ANBL

ANBL is a Provincial Crown Corporation responsible for the purchase, importation, distribution and retail activity for all alcoholic beverages in the province. It serves the public and over 1,100 licensees through 40 corporate retail outlets, 88 private agency store outlets, 89 local producer agency stores, and 67 grocery stores. ANBL carries 6,540 products across all retail channels, including wines, spirits, beers and other products, such as coolers and cider products, and locally produced alcoholic beverages.

About Elsipogtog

First Nation Elsipogtog First Nation is a Mi’kmaq First Nation in eastern New Brunswick. Its’ reserve lands include Richibucto Reserve #15, which is comprised of 4,120 acres lying off of Route 116 on the Richibucto River, southwest of Rexton, New Brunswick. There are currently 2,757 members living on-reserve in the community.

The commercial centre that will home the new agency store is a 17,500 square foot center that opened in October of 2016. It is owned by the Elsipogtog First Nation and is operated by the Mlsegnatigeoei Development Corporation. The commercial center is currently home to two community owned businesses: a Pharmasave, the first of its kind - owned and operated by a First Nation community, and River of Fire Market, a community grocery store. The retail center has plenty of parking and is accessible to all members of the public. It is highly visible and conveniently located off of the main Highway 116 that leads into the community.

Media Contact:
Emilie Dow, Communications Specialist
media.relations@anbl.com

Congratulations to ANBL and CNB’s 2022 Board of Directors Scholarship and Bursary Recipients

September 27, 2022

Fredericton, NB - To support the education and continuous learning ambitions of our teams and their families, ANBL and CNB offer a Board of Directors Scholarship and Bursary program every year.

Applications are open to all team members, and funds can be used for themselves or family members who are planning to pursue education opportunities.

Abigail Wilcox
Bruno Emery Legere
Chelsea Cliff
Danika Amy Caron
Danika Raymond
Emilie Vautour
Isabelle Grenier
James Ellison
Jenna Campbell
Luke Shaddick
Marcus Legere
Mintra Taylor
Noah Deschene
Nathan Spencer
Riley Oram

ANBL and CNB offer congratulations to all this years’ recipients and wish them well in their studies.

Media contact:

Emilie Dow
Communications Specialist
506-478-3634
media.relations@anbl.com

NB LIQUOR RELEASES FIRST QUARTER RESULTS FOR 2022-2023

August 2, 2022

Fredericton, NB - NB Liquor released its unaudited results for the first quarter ended July 3, 2022. Total product sales for the quarter were $133.7 million, an increase of 3.1 per cent compared to the same period last year. Net income for the quarter was $52.3 million, 1.4 per cent ahead of the prior year's first quarter net income of $51.6 million.

Key product sales trends for the first quarter (April 4, 2022 - July 3, 2022) compared to the first quarter last year were:

wine sales increased 4.4 per cent, up $1.1 million
spirit sales increased 6.1 per cent, up $1.7 million
beer sales increased 0.7 per cent, up $0.4 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 4.2 per cent, up $0.8 million

ANBL continued to work closely with international supply chain partners and suppliers this quarter to navigate supply chain challenges, and the experienced ANBL team was able to continue to meet customer needs by recommending a wide-range of alternative portfolio products.

In case you missed it

ANBL Partners with Food Depot Alimentaire

As part of its overall Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy, ANBL is focusing its community support efforts on food security to ensure contributions from ANBL have a broad reach, and a strong and direct impact in various NB communities.

This spring, ANBL partnered with the Food Depot Alimentaire, a non-profit charitable organization that serves over 100 partner agencies including 63 food banks throughout the province. In the spring, ANBL donated $25,000 to Food Depot Alimentaire towards food bank community gardens and supplies, as well as $10,000 towards warehouse repair costs. More information about the initiative can be found here.

Launch of a Local producer advisory committee

As part of its multi-year Local Producer Strategy, ANBL held its first Local Producer Advisory Committee meeting on June 27, 2022. This committee, comprised of ANBL and representatives from all categories of local alcohol producers in the province, was established as a collaborative forum to share information, hear feedback from producers, and share industry best practices. More information about the committee can be found here.

Launch of first ever pilot program with Elsipogtog Community

ANBL leadership was pleased to launch a First Nations Agency Store Pilot Program in partnership with the community of Elsipogtog. The community is working towards opening its first ANBL agency store later in 2022 in the Elsipogtog Commercial Centre. The First Nations Agency Store Pilot Program is designed to create a partnership between ANBL and select First Nations communities, through the provision of improved customer service and an enhanced shopping experience. More information about the program can be found here.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 46 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 29 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 480 people.

Media Contact: Marie-Andrée Bolduc, Director of Communications media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL Holds First Local Producer Advisory Committee Meeting

July 14, 2022

FREDERICTON, NB – As part of its multi-year Local Producer Strategy, ANBL held its first Local Producer Advisory Committee meeting on June 27, 2022. This committee, comprised of ANBL and representatives from all categories of local alcohol producers in the province, was established as a collaborative forum to share information, hear feedback from producers, and share industry best practices.

“We’re pleased to be working side-by-side with this niche industry to identify opportunities to grow the economic impact of New Brunswick’s local alcohol sector,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL President and CEO. “It was a positive inaugural meeting, and we look forward to our next meeting, along with all the progress that is sure to happen in between.”

“This meeting was an important first step toward enhancing communication and collaboration between the local craft alcohol producers and ANBL, the largest strategic partner within our industry,” said Lloyd Chambers, President of Craft Alcohol NB. “We look forward to making progress while continuing to collaborate and share industry best practices amongst all categories of producers.”

Topics for discussion during the meeting included events impacting local alcohol producers, like the launch of ANBL’s multi-year Local Producer Strategy, changes to ANBL’s support program and policies, market shares, quality assurance and export opportunities.

3 + representatives from ANBL
3 NB Craft Brewers (various production sizes)
Pump House Brewery
Graystone Brewing
Les Brasseurs Petit- Sault
1 NB Craft Distiller:
Ole Foggy Distillery
1 NB Craft Winery:
Magnetic Hill Winery
1 NB Craft Cider Producer:
Red Rover Craft Cider
1 NB Craft Cooler Producer:
Blue Roof Distillers
1 NB Macro Brewer:
Moosehead
2 Craft Alcohol NB:
President
Executive Director

The committee meets on a quarterly basis.

About ANBL

Media Contact: Emilie Dow, Communications Specialist, media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL releases unaudited fourth quarter and year-end results for 2021-2022

May 3, 2022

Fredericton, NB – ANBL released its unaudited draft results for the fourth quarter ending April 3, 2022. Total sales for the fourth quarter (14 weeks) were $107.3 million, 3.1 per cent higher than the quarter ending March 28, 2021 (13 weeks).

Key product sales trends for the fourth quarter (December 27, 2021 - April 3, 2022) compared to the fourth quarter last year (December 28, 2020 - March 28, 2021) include:

an increase in wine sales of 3.6 per cent, up $0.9 million
an increase in spirit sales of 7.5 per cent, up $1.9 million
an increase in beer sales of 0.2 per cent, up $0.1 million
an increase in coolers and ciders sales of 4.3 per cent, up $0.4 million

“I’m extremely proud of the ANBL team for their continued commitment to serving New Brunswickers,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL President and CEO. “This fiscal year, we saw great growth and success thanks to our dedicated team who continued to drive the business forward despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re very proud to have contributed over $200 million to the province that will be used to fund valuable programs and services in communities across the New Brunswick.”

Preliminary, draft and unaudited sales for the 53-week fiscal year ended April 3, 2022 were $519.9 million, up $13.9 million (2.8 per cent) from the previous 52-week fiscal year (2020-2021), which ended March 28, 2021. Preliminary, draft and unaudited net earnings for the year were $199.0 million, down 0.2% compared to fiscal year 2020-2021’s results of $199.4 million. Audited statements will be included in the corporation’s annual report.

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 46 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 33 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 480 people.

Media Contact: Emilie Dow, Communications Specialist, media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL Partners with Food Depot Alimentaire as part of its focused Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy

April 19, 2022

Moncton, NB – As part of its overall Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy ANBL is focusing its community support efforts on food security. This change will ensure that efforts and contributions from ANBL will have a broad reach and a strong and direct impact in NB communities to help where there is the greatest need. To support this new direction ANBL has partnered with the Food Depot Alimentaire, a non-profit charitable organization that serves over 100 partner agencies including 63 food banks throughout the province.

In an effort to understand what ANBL employees, customers, and the general public felt was important from a community support perspective, research was conducted with all three groups. The findings were aligned; the area that received the greatest support was food security as a means of poverty reduction in the province.

“We are happy to partner with Food Depot Alimentaire to support food security in our province, a cause that is valued by our organization, customers, and New Brunswickers,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL President and CEO. “Throughout the year, there will be opportunities for customers to make a donation at the cash in our stores. When they do, the funds they donate will stay in their community, and our teams are very excited about that.”

The first area of food support will be for community gardens located in food banks. ANBL will be donating $25,000 for garden supplies to the food banks that already have gardens, as well as funding four new food bank gardens. In addition to ANBL's planned support, $10,000 will be donated to replace funds that had to be unexpectedly used for repair and security costs after a recent theft at the Food Depot Alimentaire Warehouse.

Throughout the year, ANBL is also planning activities to support food security, both internally with team members and publicly with customers such as “Prompt-at-cash” campaigns inviting customers to donate at their leisure.

ANBL staff recently completed their first ever food challenge in support of this new direction. Employees were challenged to see which stores and head office departments could collect the most soup cans for their local food bank with the ‘Soup Can Challenge’. Teams collected nearly 4,000 cans of soup, all headed for various food banks around the province. These types of food challenges will continue internally throughout the year.

“We truly appreciate ANBL’s support as we work towards ending food insecurity in New Brunswick,” said Stephane Sirois, Executive Director of Food Depot Alimentaire. “Hunger is a real challenge faced daily by many New Brunswickers. Partnerships like this one, along with individual donations, are essential as we continue to service those in need.”

Food Depot Alimentaire supports 25,000 visits to food banks every month and collects over $12 million worth of food each year. All the food stays in New Brunswick and serves over 1 million meals each year. Fifty-one per cent of food that Food Depot Alimentaire collects comes from corporate partners, and that’s where ANBL is planning to help.

About ANBL

ANBL is a motivating partner behind social responsibility programs in New Brunswick. It encourages the responsible use of beverage alcohol by initiating a continued conversation around making educated decisions, responsible consumption and hosting, and ending impaired driving.

As part of its updated Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy, it focuses on promoting food security in New Brunswick communities.

About New Brunswick Food Depot

New Brunswick Food Depot is a registered, non profit charitable organization that serves food banks, community kitchens, school programs and other supportive agencies across New Brunswick. Its primary functions include food storage and distribution, fundraising, food collection and advocacy for the people it serves and the agencies it supports.

Media Contact: Emilie Dow, Communications Specialist, media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL announces pilot program agency store with Elsipogtog First Nation

March 24, 2022

Fredericton, NB – ANBL leadership is pleased to be launching a First Nations Agency Store Pilot Program in partnership with the community of Elsipogtog. The community will be working towards opening its first ANBL agency store later in 2022 in the Elsipogtog Commercial Centre, located off of Route 116.

“I am excited to be sharing the news about the creation of this unique agency pilot program – the first of its kind for ANBL,” said John Correia, chairman of ANBL’s Board of Directors. “We have been working closely with the Economic Development Department of the community of Elsipogtog for some time, since they submitted a business plan to have an ANBL agency store in their community. Chief Arren James Sock and his team were very good to work with on the development of this proposal and their passion for the potential for this project was apparent.” Mr. Correia also acknowledged Arlene Dunn, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, as instrumental in advancing this project without whose support this may not have happened.

The First Nations Agency Store Pilot Program is designed to create a partnership between ANBL and select First Nations communities, through the provision of improved customer service and an enhanced shopping experience. After one year in operation, ANBL will assess the program and evaluate the possibility of expanding the program to other First Nation Communities in the province.

“I’m very pleased to be moving this pilot program forward with the community of Elsipogtog,” said Lori Stickles, President and CEO of ANBL. “It will serve as means to create job opportunities, improve convenience to the community and to continue to develop the beverage alcohol industry in a safe and responsible manner.”

Much like other agency stores, this store will follow the same guidelines, operational structure, retail standards and social responsibility requirements as existing ANBL agency stores across the province.

“We are pleased to announce a partnership with ANBL to establish an Agency Store in the community of Elsipogtog,” said Chief Arren Sock. “Discussions on this project had begun years back as a result of a survey that was sent out to the community, whereby community members shared that “having an agency store would greatly improve customer service and enhance their shopping experience.” Chief Arren Sock continued on to say, “As our community and infrastructure continue to grow, so too does the opportunities for employment growth, revenue generations and the expansion of much needed social programs. Oelalin, Thank you, Elsipogtog Economic Development, ANBL and all partners involved for making this project possible.”

More information about the program is available in the infographic here.

About ANBL

About Elsipogtog First Nation

Elsipogtog First Nation is a Mi’kmaq First Nation in eastern New Brunswick. Its’ reserve lands include Richibucto Reserve #15, which is comprised of 4,120 acres lying off of Route 116 on the Richibucto River, southwest of Rexton, New Brunswick. There are currently 2,757 members living on-reserve in the community.

Media contact: Marie-Andrée Bolduc, Director of Communications, ANBL, 506-429-4695 or media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL inviting local craft alcohol producers to be part of new advisory committee

March 11, 2022

Fredericton, NB – ANBL is inviting New Brunswick’s craft brewers, distillers, winemakers, cider and cooler producers to join a new advisory committee intended to help the industry realize its full potential.

“Our province is home to a talented cluster of award-winning craft alcohol producers whose dreams and passion have lifted the industry to new heights in recent years,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL President and CEO. “As New Brunswick’s major liquor retailer, we support this continued growth while being focused on sector-wide sustainability that brings the greatest value to all New Brunswickers. We hope this advisory group will be the start of a new relationship based on clear communication, collaboration and mutual respect.”

New Brunswick’s craft alcohol sector has seen a significant increase in producers in the last five years. This growth has been supported by ANBL through investments up to $8.7 million annually through waived fees, reduced markups, free product quality testing, marketing and promotion and other specialized services for producers.

Between 2017 and 2022 the sector grew from 53 to 105 active producers now representing a 4.3 per cent revenue share within ANBL corporate and agency stores. The province is home to the most craft brewers per capita in the country, with one brewer per 10,000 New Brunswickers who are drinking age, more than twice the national average.

This advisory committee, chaired by ANBL, will provide a forum to share information and hear feedback from producers, government departments and industry interest groups. Members will be able to share best practices, collaborate on opportunities, identify trends, as well as identify strategies for sustainability and barriers to growth.

Membership will include ANBL, along with representatives from New Brunswick craft brewers (3) a macro brewer, along with one representative each from distillers, wineries, cideries, cooler producers, and the New Brunswick Craft Alcohol Producers Association (NBCAPA).

The committee will meet quarterly starting in the spring of 2022 for one year, with a mandate to advocate, make suggestions and share industry best practices.

“NBCAPA is pleased to be part of this committee. We look forward to the opportunity for enhanced collaboration and sharing of industry best practices amongst all category of producers,” said Lloyd Chambers, President of NBCAPA.

Interested producers have until March 28, 2022 to submit their application. The committee’s full Terms of reference are available online.

About ANBL

During the last 46 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 33 communities around the province, and currently employs approximately 477 people.

Media contact: Marie-Andrée Bolduc, Director of Communications, ANBL, 506-429-4695 or media.relations@anbl.com

NB Liquor releases third quarter results for 2021-2022

January 25, 2022

Fredericton, NB – ANBL released its unaudited results for the third quarter ended December 26, 2021. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $135.1 million, 2.1 per cent higher than the quarter ended December 27, 2020 (13 weeks).

Key product sales trends for the third quarter (September 27, 2021 - December 26, 2021) compared to the third quarter last year (September 28, 2020 - December 27, 2020) were:

Wine sales increased 2.3 per cent, up $0.8 million
Spirit sales increased 3.1 per cent, up $1.1 million
Beer sales decreased 0.5 per cent, down $0.3 million and
Ready-to-drink beverages and cider sales increased 9.7 per cent, up $1.1 million

“I wish to take this opportunity to once again thank our customers and our team across the province who have remained diligent with evolving COVID-19 protocols over the past 2 years,” said Lori Stickles, ANBL President and CEO. “Our team has remained resilient throughout and have kept offering a great service to New Brunswickers.”

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 46 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 33 communities around the province, and currently employs roughly 477 people.

Media contact: Marie-Andrée Bolduc, Director of Communications, ANBL, 506-429-4695 or media.relations@anbl.com

2021 ANBL Community Foundation Quarterly Lottery Winners

December 1, 2021

Congratulations to our 2021 ANBL Community Foundation Quarterly Lottery winners. To learn more about the program guidelines, eligibility requirements, ANBL community zones and where to apply, you can click here.

NB Liquor releases second quarter results for 2021-2022

October 27, 2021

NB Liquor released its unaudited results for the second quarter ended September 26, 2021. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $147.7 million, 3.3 per cent higher than the quarter ended on September 27, 2020 (13 weeks).

Key product sales trends for the second quarter (June 28, 2021 – September 26, 2021) compared to the second quarter last year (June 29, 2020 – September 27, 2020) were:

wine sales increased 9.9 per cent, up $2.64 million
spirit sales increased 4.2 per cent, up $1.23 million
beer sales decreased 1.0 per cent, down $0.65 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 7.5 per cent, up $1.56 million

About ANBL

Over the course of the last 45 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 33 communities around the province and employs about 740 people.

Media contact: Thomas Tremblay, Communications, ANBL, 506-429-2091 or media.relations@anbl.com

Board of Directors announced appointment of President and CEO of ANBL and Cannabis NB

On behalf of the Board of Directors, today I am pleased to announce the appointment of Lori Stickles as President and CEO of ANBL and Cannabis NB effective September 7, 2021.

No stranger to ANBL, Lori is an accomplished Executive Leader with extensive, proven strategic and financial leadership experience. She is as a trusted business advisor who fosters corporate improvement, organizational change, and positive workplace culture through a personable and collaborative leadership style. Lori was also very instrumental in the success of Cannabis NB last year.

Lori joined ANBL/CNB in 2018 as the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, having acquired the necessary skillset throughout an impressive career that included a continuous growth pattern of accountability and business acumen, and establishing a reputation as a leader. Having received her BBA at UNB in 1990, her Certified General Accountant (CGA) designation in 2003 and her Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) designation in 2014, Lori is a positive example of continuous learning and professional development. She is active in her community through various initiatives as a volunteer or advocate, as well as formal Board involvement. The list is diverse and includes United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Chamber of Commerce, local food banks, and supporting improvements in diversity, equity, literacy, and addressing domestic violence.

Lori has been instrumental over the last nine months, leading the corporation as President & CEO in an acting capacity. Simultaneously, she secured the consistency and focus of the business that contributed to the highest result the corporation has experienced. She has led by example and her areas of expertise, including strategic leadership, effective communication, financial management, enterprise risk management, driving results, as well as working through COVID-19 and managing the TEAM through the pandemic have been readily apparent. These competencies and characteristics will continue to serve her, our TEAM, and the people of New Brunswick going forward.

The Board appreciates and acknowledges the effort and expertise of Knightsbridge Robertson Surrette as the third-party recruitment firm that was instrumental through this process, and looks forward to supporting Lori and the entire ANBL/CNB TEAM as we continue to achieve, or exceed, results.

John Correia
Chairman of the Board

THE FREE ANBL SAFE RIDE PROGRAM IS BACK FOR THE 2021 HARVEST MUSIC FESTIVAL

Fredericton (NB) - Alcool NB Liquor (ANBL) is pleased to offer its Free ANBL Safe Ride Program once again as part of the upcoming Harvest Music Festival. Free bus transportation will be available to bring festivalgoers downtown, at the heart of the festival grounds before the shows as well as bring them home safely at the end of the night, on either sides of the river.

As part of a three-way partnership between the Alcool NB Liquor (ANBL), the Harvest Music Festival and the City of Fredericton, anyone in the City of Fredericton will have access to a free shuttle service provided by the City of Fredericton Transit system.

The “Free ANBL Safe Ride” will be available Thursday, September 16th to Saturday, September 18th, from 5:00pm to 11:00pm, with stops at all regularly serviced City Transit bus stops on both sides of the river.

From 11:00pm to 3:00am, the City Transit system will have four buses running select return routes to deliver patrons home safely. Two buses will cover Fredericton's Southside, with two buses covering the Northside of Fredericton.

“The ANBL Safe Ride Program has become an integral part of Harvest,” said Jeff Richardson, General Manger of Harvest Music Festival. “This unique partnership with the City of Fredericton and ANBL increases accessibility and allows community members to take full advantage of the festival experience in a safe and convenient way.”

Festival goers will be able to easily catch a bus at King’s place which will be the hub location for the free ANBL Safe Ride.

“ANBL is very excited to once again be a be part of this unique partnership and to be the sponsor of the Free ANBL Safe Ride program,” said Lori Stickles President & CEO of ANBL. “ANBL is committed to helping eliminate impaired driving from our communities. We appreciate The Harvest Music Festival organizing committee and the City of Fredericton for sharing this vision with us, which is why we are offering the Free Safe Ride Program.”

In addition, the Free ANBL Safe Ride program will continue to provide a dedicated shuttle service to the Delta Hotel, Fredericton Inn, Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn, every hour with Trius buses from Thursday to Saturday of the Festival.

Download Fredericton's City Transit schedule here. You can also download ReadyPass, the free mobile app that provides real-time bus tracking and routing with easy-to-use features!

For more information on the ANBL Safe Ride program, please visit our website.

Media Contact: Tom Tremblay (Tom.Tremblay@anbl.com)

ANBL reports $129.7 million-dollar first quarter.

Fredericton, NB - ANBL released its unaudited results for the first quarter ended June 27, 2021. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $129.7 million, 2.5 per cent higher than the quarter ended on June 28, 2020 (13 weeks).

Key product sales trends for the first quarter (March 29, 2021 – June 27, 2021) compared to the first quarter last year (March 30, 2020 – June 28, 2020) were:

wine sales decreased 0.3 per cent, down $0.08 million.
spirit sales decreased 1.9 per cent, down $0.52 million.
beer sales increased 2.3 per cent, up $1.31 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 15.5 per cent, up $2.46 million.

Over the course of the last 45 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 33 communities around the province and employs about 740 people.
Under an accounting convention common in the retail industry, the Corporation follows a 52-week reporting cycle, which periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The Corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. The next 53-week year will occur in fiscal 2022.

Media contact: Thomas Tremblay, Communications, ANBL, 506-429-2091 or Tom.Tremblay@anbl.com

ANBL Experience Boutique first in North America to offer Boll & Cie Champagnes

July 9, 2021

Moncton, NB - ANBL is proud to partner with Bollicious Import Ltd to announce that Boll & Cie champagnes are now available for purchase at the ANBL Experience Boutqiue in Moncton, New Brusnwick. This marks the first time Boll & Cie champagnes have been made available in North America.

“We are very excited that ANBL has given us the opportunity to have the initial North American launch of these truly special champagnes here in New Brunswick,” says Glenn Carroll, Marketing Manager for Bollicious Import Ltd.

Founded in 1853 in Remis France, Boll & Cie was only known locally to a small group of experts. Since the turn of the 21st century, the house has been revived and now sparkles more than ever. Focusing on exceptional quality, the champagnes are produced in small quantities, and are carefully crafted from selected vineyards in Oger, Le Mesnil sur Oger, Vindley and Montgueux creating elegant and characterful wines.

The distribution of Boll Champagne is limited to selected distributors and restaurants, mainly in France, Germany, UK, Japan, Australia, Hong-Kong and now New Brunswick, Canada. ANBL is delighted to now offer three speciality wines from the Boll & Cie collection:

Boll & Cie Rose Brut 2007
Boll & Cie Blanc De Blancs Grand Cru 2010
Boll & Cie Blanc De Blancs Extra Brut ?

“We are thrilled to be able to partner with Bollicious Import Ltd to offer New Brunswickers these three spectacular champagnes. The team continues to be innovative so that our customers can continue to try unique and special products,” says Leah Anderson, Wine Category Manager for ANBL.

The ANBL Experience Boutique is located at 55 Queen St Suite 103, Moncton, NB and is open Monday through Saturday. ?

Media Contact: Tom Tremblay, Communications, tom.tremblay@anbl.com

ANBL REPORTS UNAUDITED FOURTH QUARTER AND YEAR END RESULTS 2020-2021

April 27, 2021

Fredericton, NB – Alcool NB Liquor released its unaudited results for the fourth quarter ended March 28, 2021. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $104.1 million, 11.5 per cent higher than the quarter ended on March 29, 2020 (13 weeks). Preliminary, unaudited net earnings for the quarter were $39.9 million.

“With these financial results, ANBL is able to make a significant contribution to the province during these trying times,” said Lori Stickles, Acting President and CEO. “This wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our team members and their dedication to providing the best possible service to New Brunswickers.”

Key product sales trends for the fourth quarter (December 28, 2020 – March 28, 2021) compared to the fourth quarter last year (December 30, 2019 – March 29, 2020) were:

wine sales increased 11.3 per cent, up $2.45 million
spirit sales increased 7.8 per cent, up $1.83 million
beer sales increased 6.9 per cent, up $2.86 million and
sales of ciders and coolers increased 54.4 per cent, up $3.58 million

Preliminary, unaudited total product sales for the fiscal year ended March 28, 2021, were $506.0 million, up $56.7 million (12.6 per cent) from the previous fiscal year 2019-2020, which ended March 29, 2020. Preliminary, unaudited net income for the year was $199.2 million, up 14.5 per cent compared to fiscal year 2019-2020 results of $173.9 million.

Audited statements will be included in the corporation’s annual report. Expenses for ANBL’s Board of Directors and the Acting President & CEO for the fourth quarter are available online.

About ANBL

ANBL is a provincial Crown corporation responsible for the purchase, importation, distribution, and retail activity for all alcoholic beverages in the province. It serves the public and licensees through 41 corporate retail outlets, 86 private convenience store outlets and 67 grocery stores. Its product portfolio comprises thousands of products, including wines, spirits, beers, and other products, such as cider and coolers and a large portfolio of locally produced beverage alcohol products. ANBL’s results are reported on a retail reporting cycle which is typically 52 weeks but periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. The next 53-week year will occur in fiscal 2022.

Media Contact: Tom Tremblay, media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL ISSUES THIRD QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

January 13, 2021

Fredericton, NB – Alcohol NB Liquor (ANBL) released its unaudited results for the third quarter ended December 27, 2020. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $132.4 million, 10.3 per cent higher than the quarter ended on December 29, 2019 (13 weeks). “The ANBL team is committed to managing a successful retail business for New Brunswickers as 100 per cent of our profits are returned to the province. Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize it’s more important than ever to maximize those returns,” said acting President and CEO Lori Stickles. Key product sales trends for the third quarter (September 28, 2020 – December 27, 2020) compared to the third quarter last year (September 30, 2019 – December 29, 2019) were:

wine sales increased 9.9 per cent, up $2.97 million;
spirit sales increased 11.4 per cent, up $3.66 million;
beer sales increased 4.8 per cent, up $2.36 million; and
sales of coolers and cider increased 40.7 per cent, up $3.40 million.

ANBL’s results are reported on a retail reporting cycle which is typically 52 weeks but periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. The next 53-week year will occur in fiscal 2022.

Media contact: Thomas Tremblay, Communications, ANBL, Tom.Tremblay@anbl.com.

President and CEO of Alcool NB Liquor and Cannabis NB to resign

December 22, 2020

Fredericton, NB – Patrick Parent, the president and CEO of Alcool NB Liquor (ANBL) and Cannabis NB, has decided to return to a CEO role in the private sector.

“On behalf of the board of directors, I thank Patrick for his dedication to his teams during his tenure,” said John Correia, chair of corporation’s board. “Patrick’s leadership has been instrumental in Cannabis NB’s ongoing success and the development of the ANBL strategic plan.”

Parent joined ANBL and CNB in September of 2019 as CEO and President.

“This was not an easy decision. During my time with ANBL and Cannabis NB, I’ve seen first-hand the dedication and commitment both teams have to managing and operating successful retail businesses for the people of New Brunswick,” said Parent. “The tenacity and resiliency the teams have shown, especially during a global pandemic, has made me proud.”

Correia and the entire board wish Parent and his family happiness in the future, and success in his new role.

Media contact: Thomas Tremblay, Communications, ANBL, Tom.Tremblay@anbl.com.

2020 ANBL Community Foundation Quarterly Lottery Winners

November 24, 2020

Congratulations to our 2020 ANBL Community Foundation Quarterly Lottery winners. To learn more about the program guidelines, eligibility requirements, ANBL community zones and where to apply, you can click here. We will be accepting applications for our 2021 calendar year, throughout the month of January.

DRAW FOR LIMITED RELEASE STOUT

November 13, 2020

Fredericton, NB – Alcohol NB Liquor (ANBL) customers will have an opportunity to purchase Goose Island’s 2020 Bourbon County Stout through a draw.

“Each year, Goose Island releases a limited release of their Bourbon County Stout, which is sought after by beer drinkers across the world,” said Alcool NB Liquor’s President and CEO Patrick Parent. “We’re proud to have been chosen as the only retailer in Atlantic Canada to secure a supply of the Bourbon County Stout and give our customers the opportunity to purchase it.”

ANBL has secured 132 bottles of the stout and to ensure the health and safety of our customers and store teams, customers will be able to enter a draw for a chance to purchase one bottle of the product during the Black Friday release.

Those interested must be of legal drinking age and will have until Nov. 17 to enter the draw. Winners will be drawn on Nov. 18 and bottles will be available on Nov. 27 to be sold and picked up from ANBL. Full draw details can be found online.

Media contact: Thomas Tremblay, Communications, ANBL, Tom.Tremblay@anbl.com.

ANBL ISSUES SECOND QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

October 8, 2020

Fredericton, NB – Alcohol NB Liquor (ANBL) released its unaudited results for the second quarter ended September 27, 2020. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $142.9 million, 13.4 per cent higher than the quarter ended on September 29, 2019 (13 weeks).

“ANBL continues to deliver an impactful financial return to the people of New Brunswick,” said President and CEO Patrick Parent. “We had a very successful second quarter and are projecting another record-breaking fiscal year.”

Key product sales trends for the second quarter (June 29, 2020 – September 27, 2020) compared to the second quarter last year (July 1, 2019 – September 29, 2019) were:

wine sales increased 0.8 per cent, up $0.20 million;
spirit sales increased 12.4 per cent, up $3.27 million;
beer sales increased 10.6 per cent, up $6.29 million; and
sales of coolers and cider increased 53.1 per cent, up $7.16 million.

Media contact: Thomas Tremblay, Communications, ANBL, Tom.Tremblay@anbl.com.

MASKS TO BE MANDATORY

October 5, 2020

Effective October 8th, masks will be mandatory in all of our corporate stores.

Q: Why is ANBL making masks mandatory while in your stores?

With cold weather approaching, ANBL is updating our COVID-19 safety procedures to prevent lineups and having our customers waiting outside to enter our stores. By making masks mandatory while in our stores we can continue to keep our team members and customers safe, while increasing the capacity in the store.

Q: I have a medical condition which creates a health risk when I wear a mask, do I have to wear one?

Face masks are not required when:

A medical professional has advised a customer that wearing a mask may pose a health risk to or impair the breathing of the wearer.
The person is physically unable to put on or take off the mask without assistance.
The person has trouble breathing, is unconscious or cannot remove the mask without help.
The person is deaf or hard of hearing and relies on facial and mouth movements to communicate
The person is a baby or toddler under two years of age.

Q: Even with the implementation of mandatory masks, I still do not feel comfortable entering a store. Is there any other way I can purchase product?

ANBL has launched a curb-side pickup program that allows customers the ability to place an order and pick it up on the same day, without having to leave their vehicle. For all information pertaining to this program, please visit click here.

ANBL REPORTS UNAUDITED FIRST QUARTER RESULTS – 2020-2021

July 8, 2020

Fredericton, NB – Alcool NB Liquor NB released its unaudited results for the first quarter ended June 28, 2020. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $126.6 million, 15.2 per cent higher than the quarter ended on June 30, 2019 (13 weeks).

Key product sales trends for the first quarter (March 30, 2020 – June 28, 2020) compared to the first quarter last year (April 1, 2019 – June 30, 2019) were:

wine sales increased 6.6 per cent, up $1.61 million
spirit sales increased 15.5 per cent, up $3.79 million
beer sales increased 9.5 per cent, up $4.89 million and
sales of coolers and cider increased 67.7 per cent, up $6.39 million

Media contact: Please email media.relations@anbl.com

ANBL reports unaudited fourth quarter and year end results – 2019-2020

April 28, 2020

Fredericton, NB – Alcool NB Liquor released its unaudited results for the fourth quarter ended March 29, 2020. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $93.2 million, 0.3 per cent higher than the quarter ended on March 31, 2019 (14 weeks).

Preliminary, unaudited net earnings for the quarter were $32.3 million.

The last two weeks of the quarter marked the beginning of emergency measures to respond to COVID-19 requiring ANBL to adapt very quickly to ensure customer and team safety. It is estimated that the impact of COVID-19 on sales during the last two weeks of the quarter was an increase of approximately 12 per cent. In addition, during the same period additional expenses in response to COVID-19 totalled approximately $600,000.

Key product sales trends for the fourth quarter (December 30, 2019 – March 29, 2020) compared to the fourth quarter last year (December 24, 2018 – March 31, 2019) were:

• wine sales decreased 0.2 per cent, down $0.04 million
• spirit sales increased 0.6 per cent, up $0.15 million
• beer sales decreased 1.3 per cent, down $0.54 million and
• sales of ciders and coolers increased 11.0 per cent, up $0.65 million

Preliminary, unaudited sales for the fiscal year ended March 29, 2020 were $449.1 million, up $16.1 million (3.7 per cent) from the previous fiscal year 2018-2019, which ended March 31, 2019. Preliminary, unaudited net earnings for the year were $173.8 million, up 2.8% compared to fiscal year 2018-2019’s results of $169.0 million. Audited statements will be included in the corporation’s annual report.
ANBL also released the expenses of the board of directors and of the President and Chief Executive Officer for the fourth quarter. The expenses are available online.

About ANBL
ANBL is a provincial Crown corporation responsible for the purchase, importation, distribution and retail activity for all alcoholic beverages in the province. It serves the public and licensees through 41 corporate retail outlets, 87 private convenience store outlets and 66 grocery stores. Its product portfolio comprises thousands of products, including wines, spirits, beers and other products, such as cider and coolers and a large portfolio of locally produced beverage alcohol products.

ANBL’s results are reported on a retail reporting cycle which is typically 52 weeks but periodically necessitates a fiscal year of 53 weeks. The corporation’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to March 31. Typically, the inclusion of an extra week occurs every fifth or sixth fiscal year due to the Corporation’s floating year-end date. The next 53-week year will occur in fiscal 2022.

Media Contact: Tom Tremblay, Communications, tom.tremblay@anbl.com

NEW HOURS OF OPERATION ANBL AND CANNABIS NB

March 20, 2020

Our first priority at ANBL and Cannabis NB remains the health and safety of our teams and customers and we are taking significant preventive measures to ensure this.
ANBL and Cannabis NB remain open, however, we will introduce new hours of operation effective Sunday, March 22. The following changes are:

ANBL corporate and Cannabis NB stores will be closed on Sundays until further notice.

Beginning Monday, March 23, ANBL corporate and Cannabis NB stores will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday until further notice.

Regular hours of operation are in effect for tomorrow Saturday, March 21, 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

These changes are necessary to ensure that we can continue to properly clean our stores, ensure that our shelves have product and that our exceptional teams have a chance to take care of themselves and their families.

ANBL and Cannabis NB continue to assess the situation and will make necessary changes as required. ANBL and Cannabis NB takes their responsibilities as a trusted retailer very seriously and will continue to act on the advice of public health officials and to manage our network to best serve our customers in a safe and healthy environment.

We all play a role in keeping each other and our community safe – our team will do our part and we ask our customers to do the same. We respectfully ask that our customers respect social distancing while in our stores to protect themselves and our team members. We thank our customers for the patience they’ve shown our team members during this extraordinary time.

ANBL ENCOURAGES YOU TO ‘MAKE IT RIGHT’

March 13 2020

Not all drinks are created equally. Health Canada advises that the higher the alcohol, the smaller the serving size. They recommend the following proper drink sizes, according to alcohol by volume:

BEER – 5% alcohol – 12 oz.
CIDER – 5% alcohol – 12 oz.
COOLER – 5% alcohol – 12 oz.
WINE – 12% alcohol – 5 oz.
SPIRITS – 40% alcohol – 1.5 oz.

Make it right … check ANBL.com/celebratesafe

Just remember, the higher the alcohol, the smaller the serving size. For more information on Health Canada’s “Low Risk Drinking Guidelines”, please visit: http://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2018/sc-hc/H17-3-2017-eng.pdf

Alcool NB Liquor issued third quarter financial results

January 27 2020

FREDERICTON, NB – Alcool NB Liquor released its unaudited results for the third quarter ended December 29, 2019. Total sales for the quarter (13 weeks) were $120.1 million, 4.8 per cent higher than the quarter ended on December 23, 2018 (13 weeks).

Key product sales trends for the third quarter (September 30, 2019 – December 29, 2019) compared to the third quarter last year (September 24, 2018 – December 23, 2018) were:

wine sales increased 2.3 per cent, up $0.67 million
spirit sales increased 3.4 per cent, up $1.05 million
beer sales increased 4.6 per cent, up $2.18 million and
sales of ciders and coolers increased 23.1 per cent, up $1.57 million

Over the course of the last 44 years, ANBL has built a network of stores in more than 30 communities around the province and employs about 620 people.

Media contact: Thomas Tremblay, Communications, ANBL, 506-429-2091 or Tom.Tremblay@anbl.com

Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers for 2020 are Announced... and Guess Who is Included?

January 27 2020

ANBL is one of Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers, as announced this morning by Mediacorp Canada Inc. in a special feature of the January issue of Atlantic Business magazine. Now in its 11th year, Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers is an editorial project that recognizes employers with exceptional human resources programs and forward thinking workplace policies.

Editors at Mediacorp grade employers on eight criteria: Physical Workplace Work Atmosphere & Social Health, Financial & Family Benefits Vacation & Time-Off Employee Communications Performance Management Training & Skills Development Community Involvement Employers are compared to other organizations in their field to determine which offer the most progressive and forward-thinking programs.

“I’m extremely proud and excited for our ANBL Teams across the province who work so hard every day to make our company the best it can be” said Patrick Parent, President and CEO of ANBL. “To be recognized as an industry leader is an honour we don’t take lightly, as we strive to continue to grow and improve as part of our everyday culture.”

ANBL announces first-ever rebate program for New Brunswick hospitality industry

January 24 2020

Fredericton, NB – Alcool NB Liquor (ANBL) today announced a new rebate program to be offered to bar and restaurant licensees purchasing beverage alcohol for their establishments. The program comes into effect April 1, 2020.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer this milestone program in response to the hospitality industry’s long-standing request for more competitive beverage alcohol pricing,” said ANBL CEO Patrick Parent. “We value our partnership with all licensees – they are significant contributors to the province’s economy with over 25,000 related jobs and we are very supportive of efforts to help their industry grow.”

As part of ANBL’s new 3-year plan to become more competitive with neighbouring jurisdictions, the program will offer a five to 10 percent rebate on licensees’ wine and spirit purchases and a one percent rebate on certain categories of beer products and ready-to-drink products.

ANBL, Restaurants Canada and the New Brunswick Restaurant Association (RANB/ARNB) have worked very closely together over the last few months to arrive at the win-win solution. Further details of the program will be communicated to licensees at a later date.

“This is long-awaited, welcome news for our licensed members in New Brunswick,” said Luc Erjavec, Restaurants Canada Vice President - Atlantic. “This new program will go a long way to strengthen the ability of bars and restaurants to grow the province’s hospitality and tourism industry.”

“The New Brunswick Restaurant Association (RANB/ARNB) is delighted with this announcement and excited at the spirit of co-operation by ANBL in the recognition of the important contribution made by New Brunswick restaurants to the economy of our province,” said Ken Judson, Executive Director RANB/ARNB. “This move will allow our members to become more self-sufficient, leading to prosperity, leading in turn, to improvements in all aspects of the food tourism industry.”

The program will have no impact on the net income ANBL returns to the Province of New Brunswick as it will be funded through expense reductions at the corporation.

Media contacts

Restaurants Canada: Luc Erjavec, Vice-President Atlantic, (902) 209-0804

New Brunswick Restaurant Association: Ken Judson, President, (506) 532-4249

ANBL: Tom Tremblay, Communications, (506) 429-2091

Grand Bay Gets a New Agency Store

January 14 2020

The corporate ANBL store in Grand Bay is now closed, and customers are offered a 3300 square foot agency store. The new Grand Bay - Westfield agency store, located at 217 River Valley Drive, has four checkouts for quick service, and extended hours of 6am to midnight, seven days a week. The agency store was part of the renovations to the existing Scholtens convenience store and gas bar, and will soon be adding food service.

ANBL and Scholtens thank their valued customers for their patience through these changes.

DON’T FORGET YOUR RE-USABLE BAGS

October 8 2019

In an effort to reduce our carbon footprint, ANBL would like to remind you that we are phasing out plastic bags in all 42 corporate stores by mid-October. Customers can now purchase 4-pack and 6-pack canvas bags but are also encouraged to bring their own re-usable bags. This initiative will help eliminate 5.5 million bags from New Brunswick landfills.

“We share our customers’ concerns for the environment, and we are pleased to do our part to help reduce the increasing amount of plastics in our communities,” said Rachelle Gagnon, ANBL Board Chair. “Jurisdictions across Canada have taken steps to deal with this issue and we are proud to join in the effort of becoming as environmentally conscious as possible.”