The ongoing strike by the BC General Employees’ Union has led to the closure of all provincially run liquor stores, causing a ripple effect that is now impacting private liquor stores as well.
Since all liquor distribution in the province depends on warehouses operated by BCGEU members who are picketing, the inventory for businesses is quickly running out.
Sukh Randhawa, the owner of Liquor 62 in Surrey, initially experienced a surge in sales when BC Liquor Stores shut down. However, after more than six weeks without any deliveries, his business is now suffering as his stock diminishes.
“Our shelves are emptying, and we are losing customers,” Randhawa expressed. “The impact has been significant. Before the strike, we would receive new inventory once or twice a week.”
Feeling helpless, Randhawa believes a simple solution would be for the government to permit retailers to collect their own stock from warehouses or to operate at a minimal level to prevent an industry collapse.
As Oktoberfest unfolds, some local events like Notre Dame Juggler Haus Oktoberfest are being forced to cancel due to the inability to secure alcohol.