Amherstburg’s Diageo Plant Closure: 200 Jobs at Risk Now

BREAKING NEWS: The Amherstburg community faces an urgent crisis as Diageo has just announced the closure of its bottling plant at 110 St. Arnaud St., effective February 2026. This shocking decision will displace nearly 200 employees who are now grappling with the impending job losses.

Officials confirmed this devastating news on Thursday, leaving local leaders and residents in disbelief. Dan Gemus, President of the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, expressed deep concern for the community, stating, “It’s something you never want to see happen in your community.” The plant, which has been a vital source of employment, bottles the popular Crown Royal whisky and has been a cornerstone of local industry.

Diageo has pledged to maintain a Canadian presence, with operations continuing in Toronto, Quebec, and Manitoba, but will shift some bottling operations closer to the U.S., exacerbating local unemployment fears. The swift announcement has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of approximately 20,000 residents, where many locals know someone affected by the closure.

Gemus emphasized the importance of community support during this challenging time. “We encourage residents to rally behind Amherstburg’s local businesses,” he said. “When something like this happens, it will undoubtedly affect local commerce.” He urged residents to shop local, underscoring that the employees and their families contribute significantly to the community’s economy.

In a bid to assist those impacted, Gemus affirmed that the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce will collaborate with local authorities and governments to explore new job opportunities for affected workers. “There is some time before February,” he noted, calling for proactive measures to help workers transition into new roles.

The union representing the workers, Unifor Local 200, is already taking steps to address the situation. President John D’Agnolo announced that a membership meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, aiming to discuss the next steps and engage with company officials soon.

As the community braces for the impact of this closure, local leaders are doing everything in their power to mitigate the fallout. The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce is focused on ensuring the survival and growth of the town’s business community.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed as this situation develops. The emotional toll on families and the potential ripple effects throughout the local economy are profound, highlighting the critical need for support and solidarity in the face of unexpected challenges.

For continuous updates, stay tuned as we follow this developing story.