LCBO stores closed as strike begins across Ontario

The first LCBO strike in Ontario history has begun, closing all government-run liquor stores in the province.

Negotiations between the Crown agency and the Ontario Public Sector Employees Union (OPSEU) reached a standstill Friday night as the sale of ready-to-drink beverages at convenience stores and supermarkets became a major point of contention between the two sides.

The breakdown in negotiations meant that no agreement could be reached by the strike deadline of 12:01 a.m. Friday, sending some 9,000 LCBO workers on strike.

As a result, LCBO stores across Ontario will be closed for at least two weeks — or until a deal is reached. If no deal is reached by July 19, 32 stores across the province will have limited hours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The Beer Store, local breweries and wineries, and the LCBO’s online delivery services will remain open during the strike.

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LCBO negotiations continue for several hours until strike deadline

At a press conference on Thursday, OPSEU leaders blamed Ontario Premier Doug Ford for the strike, accusing him of diverting the LCBO’s public profits to other, private interests.

“Ford is happy to give away Ontario’s crown jewel,” said OPSEU President JP Hornick.

“LCBO workers have come out in their thousands to say we will not stand by and watch this government throw away Ontarians’ money and give it to billionaire CEOs.”

In a statement on Thursday evening, the government said it was “disappointed” that the talks had failed and refused to abandon its plans to liberalise alcohol sales.

“We are more committed than ever to delivering on our promise of choice and convenience by expanding access to beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink beverages in convenience stores, supermarkets and large grocery stores from late this summer,” the government said.

“We urge OPSEU to return to the negotiating table and work toward a deal that prioritizes Ontario’s consumers and producers.”

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Customers stock up on supplies as LCBO closure looms

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