A Manitoba federal Conservative Member of Parliament criticized Ontario Premier Doug Ford for his stance on potentially removing Crown Royal from liquor store shelves. James Bezan, representing the Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman riding, where the whisky is produced, emphasized that Crown Royal is a significant Canadian export spirit made in Manitoba. Bezan suggested that Ford may lack complete information and urged him to reconsider his position.
Crown Royal, distilled in Gimli, Manitoba, is facing a potential removal from Ontario stores due to Diageo’s decision to close its bottling plant in Amherstburg, Ontario. Ford reaffirmed his intention to pull the product once the plant shuts down in February, claiming that jobs would be relocated to the U.S. However, Diageo clarified that bottling for Canadian and non-U.S. markets would still occur in Quebec, despite the plant closure in Ontario.
In response, Bezan hinted at potential retaliation from Manitoba, particularly targeting Ontario wine sales. Manitoba officials and local representatives emphasized the importance of supporting Canadian products and jobs. They highlighted the positive impact of Crown Royal on the local economy and stressed unity among provinces, especially during uncertain times and trade disputes with the U.S.
Experts, like University of Manitoba’s Asper School of Business professor Barry Prentice, criticized Ford’s decision, questioning its rationale and potential negative consequences. They argued that Crown Royal remains a Canadian brand regardless of bottling locations and warned against escalating interprovincial trade tensions.