Private liquor stores hurting as BCGEU strike continues

The BC General Employees’ Union strike has resulted in the closure of all provincial liquor stores, significantly affecting private liquor retailers in British Columbia. Business owner Sukh Randhawa of Liquor 62 in Surrey reports a sharp decline in sales after initially benefiting from the closures, now facing inventory shortages after six weeks without deliveries. He describes the situation as "helpless," calling for government intervention to allow retailers to pick up their own stock from warehouses. The strike's impact is felt beyond retail, with local events like Notre Dame Juggler Haus Oktoberfest canceling due to a lack of alcohol. Randhawa highlights that liquor stores were classified as essential during COVID-19, suggesting a similar operational model to mitigate the crisis.

He emphasizes the urgency to act before the entire liquor industry collapses. The ongoing strike raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of private liquor businesses in the province. Local consumers are left with fewer options as inventory continues to dwindle.