What you should know about the possible LCBO strike

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With unionized LCBO workers facing the threat of a strike, the state-owned company is extending its opening hours and encouraging customers to stock up on supplies.

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While collective bargaining negotiations between the LCBO and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) are still ongoing, the union is in a legal strike position as of 12:01 a.m. on July 5.

The LCBO said it was “encouraging customers to shop early and stock up on preferred products” ahead of a possible strike.

Starting Thursday, June 27, all LCBO retail stores will open at 9:30 a.m. and “many” will remain open until 10 p.m. through July 4, but stores will still be closed on Canada Day.

Here’s what you should know about the possible strike.

What is the reason for the possible strike?

OPSEU and the LCBO have been in collective bargaining since March, with job security being one of the key issues. The union is concerned about the Ontario government’s plan to expand alcohol sales to convenience stores and grocery stores by 2026, and what that could mean for the roughly 10,000 LCBO workers it represents, as well as public services funded by LCBO revenues.

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Earlier this month, 97 per cent of unions voted in favour of a strike in what was “the largest strike vote ever.” OPSEU says it has brought proposals to the bargaining table that would “modernise alcohol sales in Ontario, increase convenience, safeguard good jobs and allow the province to continue to invest LCBO revenues – at least $2.5 billion a year – in public services such as health care and education.”

What are the unions demanding?

According to OPSEU, key demands focus on expanding public retail locations and hours, expanding the LCBO’s in-house warehousing, logistics and e-commerce capabilities, and creating better jobs at the LCBO, including moving from a 70 percent casual workforce to more permanent part-time and full-time positions.

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What happens if the strike continues?

While the LCBO states that it has “taken steps to ensure continuity of customer service in the event of a strike,” the details are unclear.

It has not yet been determined whether managers will take over employees’ positions, how many stores – including LCBO convenience stores – will remain open and whether sales and deliveries to bars and restaurants will be maintained during the strike period.

Where else can you buy alcohol if the strike continues?

In the event of a strike, there are still a number of options for purchasing alcohol, including The Beer Store, which is a standalone business and will continue to operate as usual. The same goes for Wine Rack locations, as well as craft breweries, distilleries and wineries.

Meanwhile, grocery stores that already sell beer and wine will be allowed to sell cases of 24 beers starting August 1. Convenience stores can start selling beer, cider and wine as early as September 5.

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