An industry group reassures that Ford’s LCBO order won’t harm Ontario’s convenience stores amid potential U.S. tariffs.
Toronto: Doug Ford’s recent move to have the LCBO remove U.S. alcohol from its shelves is stirring up some chatter. But don’t worry, Ontario’s convenience stores are ready for it, according to an industry group.
The Convenience Industry Council of Canada, which represents a bunch of retailers, says corner stores can handle whatever comes their way. They’re confident they can keep serving customers even if the province decides to push back against U.S. tariffs.
Last year, Ontario made it easier to sell alcohol, letting convenience and grocery stores compete with the Beer Store and LCBO. But they also made the LCBO the only wholesaler in the province, which changed the game a bit.
Anne Kothawala, the council’s president, mentioned that Ontario’s convenience stores have a good mix of local products. They believe they can keep meeting customer needs without a hitch.
Since convenience stores don’t sell spirits, which are a big part of U.S. alcohol sales, the impact on them should be minimal. So, they’re feeling pretty good about it.
Ford has said that if Trump goes ahead with tariffs, he’ll make sure the LCBO promotes Ontario-made wines and spirits instead. It’s all about supporting local, right?
Trump’s been talking about a hefty 25% tariff on Canadian goods, which has everyone on edge. But Ontario is ready to fight back if needed, and they’re looking at ways to protect their economy.
Gary Sands from the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers echoed Kothawala’s thoughts, saying independent stores are all about local products. They’ll still have plenty of options from other places too.
However, Sands thinks the province should rethink its alcohol sales rules to help more independent stores get in on the action. Kothawala added that the convenience industry is fully behind the government’s efforts to tackle any negative impacts.
Ford is also warning that these tariffs could cost a lot of jobs in Ontario, which is a big deal. He’s even hinted at calling an early election to get a mandate to fight back against Trump’s tariffs.
It’s a tense situation, but Ontario’s convenience stores seem ready to roll with the punches.
