LCBO stores must remain closed for 14 days during workers’ strike

The LCBO says stores will remain closed for two weeks as part of its strike preparation plan if workers walk out next week.

The province’s wine and spirits retailer said that while negotiations with the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) are continuing, there is also a plan to offer retail services online and allow limited in-store shopping.

The LCBO says that after the 14-day closure, 30 retail stores will open for in-store shopping, but only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with limited hours.

The LCBO adds that it will continue to operate its online retail business for the duration of the strike.

“Given the impact of a strike on sales and operations, the LCBO must implement appropriate caps on products in-store and online,” the retailer said in an update Thursday afternoon.

The LCBO says bars and restaurants, as well as licensed grocery stores and The Beer Store, will continue to accept wholesale orders.

In advance of possible industrial action, the hours of operation of all LCBO stores across the province have been extended, with the usual Canada Day closure coming into effect on July 1. While “many” stores will remain open until 10 p.m., the LCBO says this will vary by location and customers are asked to Check your local outlets for exact times.

“We encourage customers to shop early and stock up on preferred products. Our shelves are well stocked and we are doing everything we can to maintain inventory levels,” the LCBO said in a statement earlier this week. “Customers may particularly want to stock up on spirits and vintages products at this time.”

As of 00:01 on July 5, the union is in a legal strike position after 97 percent of members voted in favor of industrial action.