In British Columbia, the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) is one of two branches of government responsible for the beverage alcohol industry. The Liquor Distribution Act gives the LDB the sole right to purchase beverage alcohol both within BC and from outside the province, in accordance with the federal Importation of Intoxicating Liquors Act.

Reporting to the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, the LDB:

• Handles importation and distribution of beverage alcohol in BC
• Operates government liquor stores and distribution centres
• Has a General Manager who is responsible for administering the Liquor Distribution Act, which includes the oversight of government liquor stores, subject to direction from the minister.

The Liquor Distribution Act clarifies:

• LDB administration
• Government liquor store operation
• The role and powers of the LDB General Manager

The LDB follows the Crown Agencies Resource Office guidelines for service plans and annual reports, and is reported out in public accounts in a manner similar to a commercial crown corporation, on a modified equity basis.

Another branch of the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General — Liquor Control and Licensing Branch (LCLB) — licenses private liquor stores, restaurants, pubs and manufacturers, and enforces regulations under the Liquor Control and Licensing Act.

The LDB and LCLB have a shared responsibility to encourage the responsible consumption of beverage alcohol and work closely together to coordinate policies and programs to this end.