BCGEU Strike Threatens BC Hospitality Sector Amid Concerns

The hospitality industry in British Columbia is bracing for potential disruptions as the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) has issued a 72-hour strike notice following a significant vote in favor of job action. With a striking approval rate of 92.7 percent, the union’s members could commence a strike as early as Tuesday morning, posing serious implications for establishments reliant on provincial liquor sales.

The last strike by the BCGEU occurred in 2022, when picket lines were established outside four BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) centers, halting alcohol deliveries across the province. Jeff Guignard, president and CEO of Wine Growers BC, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “They picketed in front of the warehouses where we get about half of the entire industry’s alcohol.” He emphasized that some products, including international spirits and ready-to-drink beverages, are exclusively sourced from these warehouses, indicating that a new strike could have an immediate and detrimental impact on the industry.

While BC wineries, craft distilleries, and breweries have the capability to deliver directly to restaurants and bars, Guignard expressed concerns about the logistical challenges this would present. He noted, “We certainly are going to do our best to connect buyers and sellers… whatever increase in business is offset by the massive headaches and frustrations of having, at the last minute, to rejig supply chains.”

The situation is further complicated by existing struggles within the hospitality sector. Ian Tostenson, president and CEO of the BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association, pointed out that tariffs and reduced availability of U.S. wine have already strained the industry. He stated, “If the LDB goes on strike, that means we are blocked from getting any product, and that’s not good. That’s not going to be good for industry at all.”

BCGEU president Paul Finch has not disclosed details regarding the nature of the upcoming job action. The previous strike, which lasted for two weeks, resulted in significant challenges for the hospitality sector, with Guignard noting that recovery took months. He cautioned, “It’s massively disruptive and it will cost industry millions of dollars and potentially jobs.” He urged for a swift resolution to the dispute, emphasizing the negative impact on the thousands of small businesses within the industry that are not directly involved in the negotiations.

Negotiations between the BCGEU and the BC Public Service Agency commenced in April 2023 but stalled in July 2023. Key issues include wage disputes, remote work policies, and demands for a “modernized contract.” The workers represented by the BCGEU encompass a broad range of roles, including firefighters from the BC Wildfire Service, liquor store employees, correctional officers, sheriffs, and social workers.

As the threat of a strike looms, the hospitality sector remains on alert, with many businesses hoping for a swift and fair resolution to avoid further disruption in an already challenging economic landscape.