From NASA to TikTok: The Snack That’s Taking Over the Candy Aisle
Why Freeze-Dried Candy Should Be Your Next Top-Selling Treat Once a niche novelty rooted in space food technology, freeze-dried candy is now rocketing to the top of the confectionery charts. As a convenience store retailer looking to drive foot traffic and boost impulse buys, this is one trend you don’t want to miss. According to […]
The Future of Protein Snacks: Key Trends Driving Category Growth in 2025
The protein snacks category is entering a new era of opportunity. Once a niche offering focused primarily on fitness consumers, protein-rich snacks are now a mainstream staple—and the data proves it. In 2025, the global protein snacks market has hit $24 billion in sales, growing at three times the rate of the overall snacking category. […]
Kenny Shim Profiled by NACS as Industry Advocate
We are proud to share that OCSA President Kenny Shim was recently featured in the February 2025 issue of NACS Magazine. As part of their special “Advocacy in Action” feature, Kenny was recognized for his persistent leadership and 34 years of experience in the convenience store industry. In the article, Kenny shared his insights on […]
Craft Brewers of Ontario
Discover some amazing craft brewers in your area and support local
Ready, Set, Sell Beer: Expert Tips from Labatt
Discover the essentials of beer sales with Labatt’s new website
You’re Invited! AGCO-LCBO Education on Alcohol Sales
June 17th Information Session 2:00 pm The AGCO and the LCBO are collaborating to offer joint information sessions to convenience stores and grocery store owners who are interested in selling beer, wine, cider, and other low-alcohol ready-to-drink beverages. The information sessions will cover eligibility requirements, the application process, legal requirements and the end-to-end journey to […]
Mark Your Calendar – Get Licensed to Sell Alcohol
Exciting news for convenience stores in Ontario! Starting September 5, 2024, you will have the opportunity to sell beer, wine, ciders, and ready-to-drink products. This new opportunity promises to enhance your store’s offerings and attract more customers. Applications for the necessary licenses open on June 17, 2024. To apply, visit the Alcohol and Gaming Commission […]
Convenience Stores to Sell Beer-Wine-Ciders September 5, 2024
With the announcement today from Premier Ford that convenience stores will be able to sell beer, wine, cider, coolers and ready to drink products as of September 5, 2024, there is a LOT of information that you need to know. The OCSA has been working diligently with the AGCO, LCBO, Ministry of Finance, as well […]
Kenny Shim Meets with Premier Ford
Kenny Shim, president of the OCSA and the Ontario Korean Business Association was invited to meet with Premier Ford to discuss a number of small business matters. Kenny and the Ontario Convenience Stores Association is very appreciative of the Ford government for bringing beer and wine to convenience stores. The OCSA has been working with […]
OCSA Invited to Ontario Government’s 2024 Budget Announcement
On Monday March 25, OCSA’s President, Kenny Shim, and Executive Director, Donna Montminy, were invited by the Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance, to attend the Ontario Government’s 2024 budget announcement. Of importance to the Ontario Convenience Stores Association, is the Modernization of the Tobacco Tax Act. In particular, the increasing fines to those who […]