How It Works

What is Best Bar None (BBN)?

Best Bar None (BBN) is an accreditation and awards program, promoting the responsible management and operation of liquor-licensed premises. The program aims to reduce alcohol-related harms by raising the standards of licensed premises and building positive relationships among all stakeholders – operators of licensed premises, industry partners, law enforcement and concerned community groups. In addition, BBN rewards licensees who go above and beyond to raise the responsible service standards and make their establishments safer.

Accreditation criteria cover a wide range of issues that well-managed premises should be aware of and address. As part of the accreditation process, all premises are assessed to ensure they meet the specific standards related to safe operations and responsible management.

Accredited premises receive a plaque to display within their establishment and signage for their entrances. They are also permitted to display the BBN brand in promotional materials.

All accredited establishments who go above and beyond in meeting the responsible management and safe operations standards will be considered for an award by a judging panel. A winner and runners up will be identified in several categories.

THE REWARDS OF BBN MEMBERSHIP

There’s lots of great things about joining the BBN program. We asked real owners and managers of BBN accredited establishments which benefits they’ve experienced so far.

reputation

Good for Reputation

Accreditation tells your customers you take their fun and safety seriously. They know you and your staff are always working towards giving them the best night out; and patrons who have a great time at your place are more likely to return, share photos, leave reviews and tell their friends about you.

partnership

Partnership with AGLC

Partnering with AGLC gives you easy access to industry news, training resources, leadership and specialized programs. It also opens the door for active, ongoing communication between you, AGLC and BBN partners such as police, fire and your municipality.

trophy

Quality Assurance and Training Materials

Accreditation gives you access to full training manuals for serving and handling liquor, as well as training programs and quality assurance documents and guides to help owners and managers prepare for inspections. Using and following the BBN Checklist keeps you on top of industry fundamentals as well as helping ensure compliance with regulations.

 

A GREAT NIGHT OUT STARTS HERE.

Best Bar None (BBN) is a voluntary accreditation program that recognizes excellence in Alberta’s liquor-licensed establishments. For patrons, it’s a symbol of exceptional safety and service. For business owners and managers, it’s a tool to help ensure your customers have a fun and safe night out.

The Annual BBN Awards Shows

AGLC hosts industry awards nights for accredited establishments to recognize the best nightlife in Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Grande Prairie, Banff and Red Deer.

For the BBN Awards, the BBN steering committee selects accredited establishments that demonstrate excellence, with the winners receiving an award at the show.

Winners can display their awards year-round, so their customers know they are industry leaders when it comes to fun and safety.

Examples of competition categories:

  • Best bar/lounge
  • Best restaurant and bar
  • Best small pub
  • Best pub
  • Best large pub
  • Best club
  • Best casino
  • Best campus bar
  • Best hotel bar
*some variation between cities

Get Accredited

Category Winners

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