A Beer Store on 514 Adelaide St. in London is set to close on April 27, 2025, marking yet another location shuttered amid changing dynamics within Ontario's alcohol retail space. This announcement adds to the growing list of Beer Store closures across the province, which now totals 28 since May 2024, with the closing of this location being the second occurrence of its kind within London this year.
John Nock, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 12R24, representing Beer Store employees, voiced significant concerns, stating, "My concern is obviously our members. They've sold beer responsibly in this province for going on 100 years. The next fear is for the public.” His worries reflect the broader industry uncertainty as the number of operating Beer Stores continues to dwindle. Alongside the London location, Beer Stores slated to close include locations in Kitchener, Erin, Hearst, and Corunna.
The closures stem from recent policy decisions by Premier Doug Ford's government, which began to accelerate the sale of beer, wine, and ready-made cocktails through corner stores, gas stations, and supermarkets starting last May. This aggressive shift has resulted in 23 Beer Store closures across Ontario, disrupting long-established practices within the retail alcohol market.
Nock clarified the government’s stipulations on the matter, noting, "An agreement stipulates at least 300 Beer Store locations must stay open until the end of 2025, but after to keep Beer Stores open, we may face uncertainty.” He raised alarms about the impact these decisions could have on beer prices and customer choice, as increased competition could lead to rising costs due to market share shifting to retail outlets lacking price caps.
According to Nock, employees affected by the closures have been able to transition to nearby Beer Stores. Still, he fears this may not remain viable as more stores close, leaving unit employees scrambling for available positions. “If many more stores close, there will be too many employees for other stores to absorb,” he stated.
An additional concern for Nock revolves around the Ontario Deposit Return Program, which mandates all stores selling beer to accept and recycle empty containers. The regulation requires these stores to adhere to strict recycling policies until January 1, 2026. Nock criticized the effectiveness of the program, claiming, "There's been complaints made to AGCO, and really nothing's come of them. These people are still selling beer and wine.” His remarks imply skepticism about the equitable enforcement of the recycling regulations among competing retail sectors.
Nock urged the public to support Beer Stores, cautioning, "My fear is if people aren't shopping at the Beer Store as much, they'll close even more stores.” His encouragement is, without question, rooted not only in solidarity for the workers but also for the public's choice to purchase alcohol from stores known for carrying it responsibly and safely.
These closures highlight significant disruptions within Ontario's alcohol retail framework. Many see the sales shift to supermarkets and convenience stores as potentially harmful to consumer relationships with traditional beer retailers, which have upheld standards during their century-long history. With the Ontario government imposing changes, the future viability of Beer Stores remains uncertain.
Supporters of the Beer Stores might frame the closures as merely part of the broader narrative prompted by policy changes favoring retail giants, who are less accountable for prices and public responsibility, unlike specialized stores. The coming months leading up to the closures of these storied Beer Stores will undoubtedly test the integrity of Ontario's alcohol retail system and measure community investment in its historical institutions.
What happens next on the legislative front and within communities holds more than just economic ramifications; these changes impact local industries, jobs, and how people choose to enjoy their beverages. Without the support of the public, Nock's fears might materialize, leading to not only more store closures but potentially raising prices across the board.”