The labor union representing employees at the soon-to-be-closed Diageo Crown Royal plant in Amherstburg has finalized an agreement for workers facing job loss in February. Unifor Local 200 members gathered on Sunday to approve the company’s final proposal, solidifying the irreversible closure plans, according to John D’Agnolo, the president of Local 200. Approximately 160 unionized workers at the plant now have the choice to depart immediately or stay until the facility shuts down.
With an overwhelming 89% of workers voting in favor of the deal, Premier Doug Ford has pledged to take action against the closure by removing Crown Royal from LCBO shelves next year. Despite the union’s plea for the province to fight to keep the plant operational, D’Agnolo expressed his belief that the closure was already set in stone.
The company clarified that while Crown Royal whisky production will persist in Canada, the decision to shift some bottling operations closer to U.S. consumers was part of a strategic move. Diageo emphasized its commitment to maintaining a significant presence in Canada, including headquarters and other facilities in various locations across the country.
The Amherstburg plant, which has been bottling Crown Royal since 1971, will see its operations cease in the coming months. Despite efforts to negotiate the best possible closure terms, workers face an uncertain future. The town has received interest from potential developers looking to repurpose the bottling facility for future job opportunities.
D’Agnolo acknowledged the emotional toll on workers, stating that while the closure agreement was maximized given the circumstances, it was still a somber moment for all involved. The workers’ union representative emphasized the importance of securing as much as possible for the members before the contract deadline.
As the community navigates the impending closure, there remains a glimmer of hope for new job prospects emerging at the site, as several companies have shown interest in leveraging the facility for future ventures.