LCBO scraps plan for limited store openings amid ongoing strikes

The LCBO scraps plans for limited store opening as a strike by about 9,000 workers enters its second week.

The LCBO had stated that if no agreement could be reached with the Ontario Public Sector Employees Union (OPSEU) by July 19, 32 stores across the province would have to remain open at limited hours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

On Sunday, however, the government agency changed course, citing the need to better serve Ontario’s bars and restaurants.

“We will redeploy staff scheduled to work in-store when LCBO retail stores opened to other areas of operation to further enhance support for bars, restaurants and other businesses,” the LCBO said in a statement.

“This means that LCBO retail stores will no longer be open for the duration of the strike.”

The LCBO added that regular customers can continue to purchase their products online.

“We would like to thank our customers for their flexibility and patience as we continue to strive to meet expected service schedules,” it said. Orders were fulfilled within a week.

“We want this strike to end, we continue to work for an agreement with OPSEU and encourage them to respond to our fair offer.”

On July 5, LCBO workers went on strike for the first time in the province’s history after talks between the state agency and OPSEU failed.

1:31
Ford promotes LCBO alternatives despite strike: “Still many options”

The sale of ready-to-drink beverages in corner shops and grocery stores – which the Ford government played a key role in implementing – was a key sticking point between the two sides.

OPSEU claims that by bringing thousands of private retailers into the alcohol distribution network, the government is putting $2.5 billion in public revenue at risk.

According to government data, ready-to-drink products account for 9.1 percent of total sales in the province’s liquor stores.

1:33
Doug Ford says he will not back down from his ready-to-drink plan despite the LCBO strike: “The train has left the station”

On July 10, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced that he would not back down from his plan to expand alcohol sales in the province.

“Let me be clear. It’s over. It’s gone. The ship has sailed across Lake Ontario,” he said.

Despite the LCBO’s restrictions on store hours, the Beer Store, local breweries and wineries, and the LCBO’s online delivery services will remain open during the strike.

— with files from Gabby Rodrigues

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