How BC Liquor Licensees Can Avoid Compliance Infractions During the FIFA World Cup 2026™ – Tips from a Liquor License Consultant

Practical, easy-to-implement steps to help bars, restaurants and liquor stores remain compliant

During FIFA World Cup 2026™ over 350,000 attendees will watch matches at BC Place Stadium and the BC government expects that the event will attract an additional 1 million visitors and $1 billion in tourism spending between 2026 and 2031.

While BC liquor licensees are focused on stocking up and staffing in preparation of the boom, it’s easy to overlook compliance. Employees, especially new hires, may not have sufficient training to ensure an operation remains compliant with the law and the terms and conditions of the liquor license.

A back-to-basics approach is the most effective way to reduce the risk of compliance infractions and is what the liquor license consultants at Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors prioritize when guiding clients during major hospitality events.

Why Compliance Risks Increase During Major Events

Pressure-filled operating conditions cause compliance-infraction creep.

Common concerns:

• Core staff may be too busy to attend to their compliance responsibilities
• New or temporary staff may be unfamiliar with policies or lack training
• ID checking may be inconsistent
• Staff may be too busy to monitor patron intoxication
• Managers may be too busy to ensure staff are working within the requirements of the establishment’s BC liquor license

Temporary Extensions Bring Increased Scrutiny

Many hospitality businesses in Vancouver and BC will apply for temporary liquor license extensions during the World Cup, including extended hours of service or expanded licensed areas. These temporary changes introduce added operational complexity and increased scrutiny from LCRB compliance and enforcement inspectors.

Licensees can expect:

• More active monitoring by liquor license inspectors
• An increase in use of the Minors as Agents Program
• Increased risk of compliance issues during late-night or high-volume periods
• Increased reliance on staff to ensure compliance requirements are met

Working with a liquor license consultant can help ensure that any temporary license changes are supported by clear policies and relevant training.

Appropriate Staff Training and Expectation Setting

Before the World Cup begins, staff should understand that they are the first line of compliance defense.

In refresher training and new hire onboarding, focus on:

• Checking valid ID and refusing service to minors
• Recognizing and managing signs of intoxication
• Understanding when and how to stop serving alcohol to patrons
• Knowing when and how to escalate to superiors

Update Policies, Manuals, and Checklists

Training manuals and clearly written policies are the foundation of compliance training.

Key documents include:

• Staff policy manuals
• Shift compliance checklists
• Opening and closing procedures
• Incident reporting procedures

Clear documentation supports consistency and helps ensure your BC liquor license obligations are met.

With Thrive Advisors, Being Prepared is Easier Than You Think

Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors supports BC liquor licensees with operational reviews, staff training, and policy development that will help your operation remain compliant during events like the FIFA World Cup 2026™.