The AODA: Is your business compliant with accessibility laws?

By Jennifer Mathers McHenry and Lesley Campbell The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (“AODA” or “the Act”) became law on June 13, 2005, but has been and continues to be phased in over time with the Ontario government mandating that all businesses in the province must be accessible for persons with disabilities no later […]

New modern liquor laws come into effect in B.C.

Press release An updated Liquor Control and Licencing Act and regulation came into force on Jan. 23 that will create new opportunities for businesses, increase convenience for consumers and enhance the Province’s commitment to social responsibility. Legislative changes The Liquor Policy Review made 73 recommendations to update antiquated laws for British Columbians and reduce red tape. […]

What Bill 132 means for your restaurant

By Jennifer Mathers McHenry and Michael Winterstein As an employer it is vital to stay on top of relevant changes to the law to ensure that your business is a) compliant with minimum requirements; b) doing all it can to avoid liability; and c) is prepared to answer any complaint or claim made.  There are […]

Calgary toasting to rise in craft breweries following change to Alberta liquor regulations

Press release Thriving microbrewery industry a bright spot in light of current economic conditions Calgary is now reaping the benefits of the amendment to Alberta’s liquor legislation that put an end to the production-capacity limit of 5,000 hectolitres minimum per year, and is seeing a significant rise in the number of craft breweries in the […]

Key legal issues for the foodservice industry

By Chad Finkelstein It is an exciting time to be a restaurant owner. Marketing options to reach customers are limitless. A carefully established brand has more resonance and power than ever before.  Emerging technologies in the area of mobile payment are keeping costs down and transactions moving faster. And the franchise model continues to show […]

Proceed without good employment counsel at your peril

By Jennifer Mathers McHenry Setting up and running a restaurant is risky, expensive and a heck of a lot of work. I can understand why restaurateurs, both new and experienced, want to avoid unnecessary costs. I can also understand why having an employment lawyer involved in your business when everything is running smoothly can seem […]

Restaurant chains – get ready for B.C. franchise laws

By Chad Finkelstein Franchise law is a good thing. While that may seem an obvious and self-serving statement coming from a franchise lawyer, one of the reasons that I take satisfaction from my job has to do with the purpose that (I hope) it serves. And that has a lot to do with why franchise […]