B.C. Liquor and Cannabis Stores Face Strike as Unions Demand Pay Increase

The ongoing strike by the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) has expanded to encompass all British Columbia Liquor and cannabis retail stores, effective October 8, 2023. This escalation means that all outlets will be closed as union members continue to seek higher wages in their collective bargaining agreement, which they aim to have backdated to April 1, 2023.

The job action, which initially began on September 2, has intensified over the past weeks. Currently, over 23,000 workers from both the BCGEU and the Professional Employees’ Association are participating in the strike, while approximately 5,000 workers are classified as essential and are not participating. The unions represent more than 35,000 workers across various sectors, including liquor store employees and government lawyers.

Union Demands and Government Response

Workers are advocating for an increase of 8% in wages, while the government has proposed a raise of 4% over two years, which includes an additional 1% in allowances and adjusted wage classifications for low-wage employees. On September 29, the government slightly revised its offer, increasing the wage proposal to 4.5%, which the unions swiftly rejected.

BCGEU President Paul Finch expressed the union’s frustration, stating, “We don’t take this escalation lightly, and we know that disruptions to services are difficult for the public—we regret the impact this is having on communities.” Finch called for the government to return to negotiations, highlighting the lack of adequate response from the government after months of patience from union members.

Finance Minister Brenda Bailey commented on the situation earlier in the week, describing the government’s offer as “reasonable.” She underscored the need for a fair agreement that balances the needs of government workers with taxpayer considerations.

Impact on Local Businesses and Community Services

The strike has drawn attention from various sectors, with Restaurants Canada urging for a resolution that allows restaurants and bars to purchase alcohol from private liquor stores. With public distribution centres and stores closed, many establishments are unable to restock their supplies.

Mark von Schellwitz, Vice-President for Western Canada at Restaurants Canada, warned that this situation jeopardizes the viability of the food service industry in British Columbia, which employs 183,000 people. “With 41% of restaurants operating at a loss or just breaking even, taking away their ability to serve alcohol, while consumers can still purchase it for home consumption, may push some to the brink of closure,” he said.

As negotiations continue, the impact of the strike is expected to resonate throughout the community, affecting both consumers and businesses reliant on liquor sales. The unions are determined to achieve their demands, while the government faces pressure to respond adequately to avoid further disruptions.