A Member of Parliament (MP) from Manitoba’s Conservative party criticized Ontario Premier Doug Ford for threatening to remove Crown Royal from shelves. James Bezan, who represents the Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman riding, where the whisky is produced, expressed his concerns on social media. He emphasized that Crown Royal is a Manitoba-made whisky, a top Canadian export spirit. Bezan suggested that Ford may be misinformed and urged him to reconsider with all the relevant information.
Crown Royal is distilled in Diageo’s plant in Gimli, Manitoba. However, Diageo announced the closure of its bottling plant in Amherstburg, Ontario, leading to Ford’s threat. Ford reiterated his intention to remove Crown Royal from Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) shelves once the Ontario plant shuts down in February. Despite this, Diageo assured that production for Canadian and other markets outside the U.S. will continue in Valleyfield, Quebec.
In response, Bezan warned of potential retaliation from Manitoba, possibly targeting Ontario wine sales. Meanwhile, Manitoba officials emphasized the importance of supporting Canadian products and jobs. Various local representatives highlighted the economic significance of Crown Royal to their communities.
Critics, including a University of Manitoba professor, questioned Ford’s rationale amidst ongoing trade disputes with the U.S. They argued that Crown Royal remains a Canadian product, regardless of bottling locations. Concerns were raised about potential interprovincial trade conflicts if Ford proceeds with his plan.