Ontario Town Hosts Heartfelt Funeral for Closing of Iconic 75-Year-Old Beer Store

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Ontario Town Hosts Heartfelt Funeral for Closing of Iconic 75-Year-Old Beer Store

The recent closure of a beloved local institution in Bala, Ontario, has prompted residents to host a heartfelt farewell event. The Beer Store, known formally as TBS, has been part of the community since 1950. However, the retail landscape changed significantly after the province updated its alcohol sale regulations, allowing more competition and leading to the eventual closure of numerous Beer Store locations across Ontario.

Closure of the Iconic Beer Store

The Bala Beer Store, designated #3407, closed its doors permanently on Sunday, September 28, 2025. This store was notable for its retro orange-and-white branding and served as a gathering spot for locals for over 75 years.

Community Funeral Celebration

As the store prepared to shut down, residents organized a unique farewell ceremony. The Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce shared videos capturing the emotional send-off, where community members came together to honor the store’s legacy. Attendees raised their beers and seltzers as staff delivered a closing speech, emphasizing the store would be “gone, but never forgotten.”

  • Date of Closure: September 28, 2025
  • Store Opening Year: 1950
  • Event Type: Community funeral

The celebration featured joyous activities, including handmade beer wreaths and vintage car displays. Many attendees were dressed in costumes, while local musicians contributed to the festive atmosphere. The event highlighted not only the loss of a business but also the connections forged over decades.

The Impact of Changing Alcohol Regulations

This closure is part of a broader trend in Ontario, where the government has sought to diversify the market. The new alcohol sale rules, implemented last year, have reduced TBS’s once-dominant position. Previously, the Beer Store held exclusive rights to certain alcohol sales, but new legislation has shifted that balance.

Future of Alcohol Sales in Ontario

The revamped regulations are aimed at increasing customer choice and convenience. The number of Beer Stores in Ontario is now set to decrease significantly. For instance, the required number of stores is expected to diminish from 386 in mid-2025 to as few as 300 by the end of that year. After that point, TBS has the option to close any number of its locations without restrictions.

Despite this loss, Bala remains optimistic about its future. New businesses are emerging to fill the gap left by the Beer Store. Local establishments such as Clear Lake Brewing Co. and Glen Orchard General Store now offer alcohol sales, helping the community adapt to this new landscape.

In summary, while the closure of the iconic Beer Store in Bala marks the end of an era, it also signifies a community’s resilience and ability to embrace change. The farewell ceremony serves as a testament to the store’s impact on the lives of its patrons and the spirit of camaraderie among residents.