The Alberta government is considering allowing grocery and corner stores to sell alcohol, a move that has raised concerns and opposition from the liquor industry. A panel of MLAs is studying the idea, but no decisions have been made. Industry representatives argue that increased competition would harm independently owned liquor stores and that there is no public demand for such a change. However, the government is also seeking public opinion through a survey. The move is driven by Ontario’s proposal to significantly expand private-sector liquor retailing, but Alberta already has a fully privatized system.