A brewing trade dispute is pitting provincial leaders against each other, centered around Canada’s iconic whisky, Crown Royal. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has directly appealed to Ontario’s Doug Ford, urging him to adopt a unified “Team Canada” approach in the face of potential U.S. tariffs.
The plea unfolded dramatically at the Crown Royal plant in Gimli, Manitoba. Kinew symbolically wrote Ford’s name on a whisky barrel, a gesture meant to underscore the importance of collaboration and a shared national interest.
The Gimli plant itself is a vital economic engine for the region, employing 75 people and supporting local farmers who supply key ingredients. It’s where the whisky undergoes its crucial processes of mashing, distilling, and aging – a proud symbol of Manitoba’s contribution to a national brand.
Kinew emphasized the need for provincial solidarity, stating that a united front is essential when confronting external pressures like those from the United States. He warned that internal division weakens Canada’s position and offered to host Ford in Winnipeg for a face-to-face discussion, even suggesting a hockey game as a neutral ground.
The conflict stems from Diageo, Crown Royal’s parent company, announcing the closure of its blending and bottling plant in Amherstburg, Ontario, a move that will displace approximately 200 workers. Ford responded with a vow to remove Crown Royal products from Ontario’s LCBO stores.
Ford expressed strong disapproval of Diageo’s decision, believing it will ultimately lead to job losses shifting south of the border. He famously described the move as “as dumb as a bag of hammers,” demonstrating his fierce commitment to protecting Ontario jobs.
The Amherstburg plant’s closure follows a cost-streamlining initiative by Diageo, finalized after reaching an agreement with Unifor, the union representing its employees. Ford had previously signaled his displeasure with Diageo’s plans, even dramatically pouring out a bottle of whisky during a press conference.
Support for the Gimli plant isn’t limited to Kinew. Manitoba Progressive Conservative Leader Obby Khan also penned a letter to Ford, highlighting their shared commitment to supporting private sector industries and the jobs they create.
Despite a recent phone conversation with Kinew, Ford remains resolute in his decision to boycott Crown Royal. He acknowledged Kinew’s efforts to protect Manitoba jobs but maintained his focus on safeguarding employment within Ontario.
Kinew, however, has indicated he won’t retaliate if Ontario follows through with its boycott, stating that any action harming Canadian jobs would be counterproductive. He’s prioritizing a broader national interest over provincial friction.
