The provincial government confirmed on Wednesday that it will delay the removal of Diageo products from provincial liquor stores until after the closure of a Crown Royal bottling facility in southwestern Ontario early next year. This decision comes despite the union representing the plant workers urging immediate action.
Premier Doug Ford’s government stated that a final decision regarding the removal of Diageo products from LCBO shelves will be made in February, coinciding with the planned closure of the Amherstburg plant. Ford had previously stated that if Diageo proceeds with the closure, sales of the iconic Canadian whisky at LCBO could be suspended.
In response to the situation, Ford’s office emphasized that all options, including removing Diageo products from the shelves, remain under consideration unless the company reverses its decision. The government assured its support for Ontario’s workers and pledged to collaborate with the local union and municipality to secure the best outcome for affected employees and their families.
Following a recent meeting between Ford and labor leaders in Toronto, the province reiterated its stance. John D’Agnolo, president of Unifor Local 200, disclosed that during the meeting, he urged the premier to take action against Diageo sooner to influence the company’s choices before the plant closure.
Diageo, a multinational company headquartered in the U.K., announced the closure of the Amherstburg plant as part of its supply chain optimization strategy. While some officials have cautioned against punitive measures to safeguard other Canadian plants, D’Agnolo advocated for immediate action, particularly with the upcoming holiday season to impact Diageo’s bottom line.
D’Agnolo emphasized the importance of holding Diageo accountable for its decision and its impact on the community. He highlighted the significance of maintaining local jobs and urged Ford to address the matter promptly. Despite reports of potential interest from other companies to take over the plant, D’Agnolo stressed the need to prioritize job retention in the community amidst challenges of high unemployment rates.