'Lost our biggest customer': Manitoba alcohol makers struggle as Liquor Mart labour dispute drags on
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The ongoing labour dispute between Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries (MBLL) and union workers took a new direction Thursday as hundreds of MGEU members rallied at the steps of the Manitoba Legislature, demanding wage increases as part of a new contract.
The ongoing labour dispute between Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries (MBLL) and union workers took a new direction Thursday as hundreds of MGEU members rallied at the steps of the Manitoba Legislature, demanding wage increases as part of a new contract.
This, as only a handful of Liquor Marts throughout the province were open for business.
Strike actions started in mid-July and now local alcohol makers are feeling the effects.
“Every brewery in town would be the same as this. We’ve essentially all lost our biggest customer. Our single biggest customer,” said Paul Clerkin, co-owner of Stone Angel Brewing Co.
For Clerkin, the Liquor Mart labour dispute means fewer orders for his product and less selection for their customers.
"It’s very unfortunate. It’s the height of summer and people in Winnipeg are having to find it harder to get their favourite local brews," Clerkin said.
He said beer does have a shelf-life and a lengthy strike could cause new product to go to waste.
