Ontario Mayor Says “Very Real Hope” to Save 168 Crown Royal Jobs

UPDATE: The mayor of Amherstburg, Michael Prue, has announced that there is “very real hope” for the future of 168 unionized jobs at the local Diageo bottling facility, which produces Crown Royal. This news comes amidst ongoing discussions about potential buyers, as Premier Doug Ford revealed that three companies are interested in taking over the operation.

In a council meeting held on October 17, 2023, Prue emphasized that these conversations are progressing, stating, “We have been working, in this town, primarily with one of them.” He refrained from disclosing the identities of the interested parties but confirmed they have made offers to take over the plant, aiming to retain all employees.

The plant is scheduled to close in February 2026, shifting its bottling operations for the U.S. market to the United States and moving Canadian bottling to Valleyfield, Quebec. This closure poses a significant threat to the local economy, as it affects a substantial number of jobs in the community.

Prue noted that while the takeover plan has faced “some roadblocks,” discussions with government officials are ongoing, and there is optimism that a resolution can be reached before any layoffs occur. “If the plant is sold, the plan is to keep all 168 unionized employees employed,” he stated.

Ford’s displeasure with Diageo’s decision to close the Amherstburg facility was made evident in a viral protest where he poured out a bottle of Crown Royal, criticizing the company’s move as ill-conceived. Earlier this month, he escalated his confrontation with Diageo, threatening to remove Crown Royal and Smirnoff vodka from the shelves of the LCBO, Ontario’s liquor control board, which spends $765 million annually on Diageo products.

“The only people that cost jobs and revenues is Diageo,” Ford declared on October 6, 2023.

As the situation unfolds, Prue expressed hope that a solution can be found swiftly. “We’re working very hard on this. All we can do is wait and see what happens. The big hammer, of course, is held by the premier,” he said.

With the community’s economic stability at stake, the developments surrounding the Diageo plant and its employees will be closely monitored. Residents are hopeful for a positive outcome that will preserve jobs and sustain the local economy.

This story is developing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.