Down to critical levels B.C. restaurants warn liquor strike could push them to the brink

The ongoing BCGEU strike has severely impacted B. C. 's restaurant and bar industry, leading to critical liquor shortages as many establishments struggle to maintain stock. Mark von Schellwitz, vice-president for Western Canada at Restaurants Canada, emphasizes that restaurants are sending staff across the Lower Mainland to find limited products, with many having sold off their U. S.

liquor inventory. The strike now includes nearly 25,000 public-sector employees, pushing the hospitality industry to the brink. Restaurants Canada reports that 41% of B. C. restaurants are operating at a loss or breaking even, highlighting the fragile state of the sector.

Von Schellwitz urges the provincial government to intervene, advocating for either a swift resolution to the strike or alternative purchasing options from private liquor stores. He warns that without a solution, restaurants may need to reduce operating hours, leading to fewer staff hours. The potential for back-to-work legislation indicates that the government may be forced to act to mitigate the economic fallout. The current labor dispute poses significant risks to B. C.

's economy and the viability of its hospitality industry.