Doug Ford Faces Complex Challenges in Crown Royal’s LCBO Removal
Premier Doug Ford is embroiled in a complex controversy regarding the potential removal of Crown Royal whisky from the liquor control board of Ontario (LCBO). This situation stems from a decision by Diageo, the U.K.-based company that produces Crown Royal, to close its Amherstburg bottling facility in Ontario. The impending closure is expected to impact approximately 200 jobs and has sparked significant backlash from the Ontario government.
Background of Crown Royal and Its Production
Crown Royal was introduced in 1939 by Edgar Bronfman, then president of Seagram, during a royal tour of Canada. The whisky, distinguishable by its purple bag, gained popularity and was first sold in the United States in 1960. Diageo acquired Seagram’s beverage division, including Crown Royal, in 2000. The brand remains influential, having been recognized as whisky of the year in 2015.
Impact of Diageo’s Decision
In August 2025, Diageo’s announcement about the Amherstburg facility’s closure ignited tensions. Ford voiced his frustration, emphasizing Diageo’s substantial business in Ontario, estimated at around $740 million annually. He described the company’s decision as reckless, leading him to contemplate banning Crown Royal from LCBO shelves.
Provincial and Cross-Provincial Reactions
- Ford’s initial response included pouring out a bottle of Crown Royal in a public display.
- Manitoba officials have criticized the potential ban, highlighting that the whisky is distilled in their province.
- Wab Kinew, Manitoba’s Premier, urged Ford to reconsider, framing the situation as a need for national solidarity.
- Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard expressed concerns regarding job impacts on Quebec workers involved in bottling for non-U.S. markets.
Concerns Over Trade and Employment
Removing Crown Royal from Ontario shelves poses challenges beyond provincial borders. Ford’s plan to execute this ban hinges on Diageo’s willingness to maintain some operations in Ontario. Currently, the company states that production will continue in Canada, even as bottling shifts to the U.S. Ford has indicated that the province will reconsider the ban if Diageo presents a plan to sustain local employment.
Future Considerations
As Ontario prepares for the closure of the bottling plant, Ford has mentioned exploring new opportunities for displaced workers. However, reports suggest that many employees have already secured new jobs. Diageo’s future operations in Canada remain ambiguous, with Ford predicting that the company may eventually transition all production to the U.S.
The situation encapsulates the broader issues of trade relations, job security, and regional cooperation. Upcoming months will determine the fate of Crown Royal in Ontario and the wider implications for affected workers across multiple provinces.
