The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) announced today that all its retail locations will be closed beginning Friday, following a strike initiated by unionized workers. This marks the first strike in LCBO’s history.
The union, represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), is seeking a new labour agreement with the provincial government agency after their previous contract expired at the end of March. The strike action comes after prolonged negotiations failed to yield a new agreement.
In an official statement, LCBO expressed disappointment over the strike decision. “LCBO is disappointed that the leadership of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) has decided to initiate the first strike in our long history,” the statement read.
During the initial 14-day strike period, all LCBO retail locations will remain closed. However, customers can still place orders online, with free home delivery being offered as an alternative.
The statement did not specify any plans for further negotiations, leaving the duration of the strike uncertain. However, LCBO has outlined contingency plans if the strike extends beyond 14 days. “If the strike lasts more than 14 days, certain stores will begin to reopen for in-store shopping. These 32 LCBO stores will operate three days a week (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) with limited hours,” the agency noted.
The LCBO remains committed to reaching a resolution and will continue its efforts to negotiate a new agreement with OPSEU.