Inter-Provincial Dispute Over Crown Royal Whiskey
A disagreement has developed between the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Manitoba concerning the future operations of Crown Royal whiskey. This follows an announcement by Diageo, the whiskey's producer, to close a bottling plant in Ontario.
Diageo's Operational Changes
Diageo announced its intention to close its Amherstburg, Ontario, bottling facility after five decades of operation. The company cited a restructuring effort aimed at improving its North American supply chain. While bottling operations for Canada and non-U.S. markets are scheduled to transfer to a Quebec facility, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has speculated that some operations might relocate to the United States.
Ontario's Response
Following Diageo's announcement, Ontario Premier Doug Ford publicly criticized the company's decision. He poured out a bottle of Crown Royal during a news conference and stated his intention to remove the product from provincial liquor store shelves. The Liquor Board of Ontario, which operates these stores, is North America's largest wholesale alcohol purchaser.
Manitoba's Appeal
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has appealed to Premier Ford to reverse his stance. Kinew highlighted that the Crown Royal distillery in Gimli, Manitoba, is a significant employer in the town of approximately 2,300 residents. He stressed the importance of inter-provincial unity and warned against actions that could negatively impact jobs in another Canadian province.