Plans to introduce LCBO “express” kiosks in Ontario grocery stores have now been put on hold, a spokesperson for the Crown corporation has confirmed.

The government previously announced a pilot program that would allow select large food retailers to house LCBO outlets inside their stores but the government has decided to put the brakes on the project as it works on a plan to change the way alcohol is sold in the province.

“In light of the work currently being done by the Premier’s Advisory Council on Government Assets, the provincial government has asked LCBO to put a hold on the LCBO Express Stores initiative,” LCBO spokesperson Heather MacGregor confirmed to CP24 in a written statement.

The advisory panel, chaired by former TD Bank CEO Ed Clark, recently made a number of recommendations to the province on the subject of liquor sales, including suggesting that the province charge the Beer Store a franchise fee.

“The government has indicated it agrees with the Council’s initial findings and has asked the Council to move to the second phase of its review,” MacGregor said.

Prior to the report’s release, the LCBO was finalizing lease agreements with retailers for express stores in London, Mississauga and Toronto.

“These negotiations are now on hold; respective retailers have been notified,” she added.