New liquor distribution rule in B.C. puts jobs at risk, says union
Posted May 9, 2026 2:41 pm.
The union representing liquor distribution workers says newly implemented rules from the BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) put hundreds of jobs at risk.
The changes, which took effect May 7, expand the number of products that manufacturers are able to deliver directly to wholesale customers. These direct deliveries were already permitted for wine, craft spirits, cider, and beer, and the new rules have expanded this to include packaged beverages such as coolers and hard seltzers.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 1130 NEWSRADIO VANCOUVER LIVE!“The liquor distribution system in B.C. realizes over a billion dollars in revenue per year for the government,” BC General Employees Union (BCGEU) union president Paul Finch said.
“We don’t know how this is going to impact the system, but up to 10 per cent of the revenue the government enjoys in terms of the sales volume, as well as the jobs that support that, that distribution could be impacted.”
In addition, Finch says, members were not adequately consulted before the changes were implemented.
“What they failed to do was consult us as they had committed to in writing prior that any future changes to the liquor distribution system that impacted our members, they would consult us,” said union president Paul Finch.
“That didn’t happen.”
However, the province says workers were notified of the change in March.
The LDB says this is a “targeted, operational change” to improve operational flexibility.
“These changes are limited in scope and do not represent privatization of the liquor distribution system,” the LDB said.
“The LDB will remain the central distributor for liquor in B.C. and will continue to distribute all imported refreshment beverages, wine, and spirits.”
Minister of Agriculture and Food Lana Popham says that rather than putting jobs at risk, the move will support jobs throughout the sector.
“It is intended to strengthen B.C.’s liquor manufacturing sector, provide flexibility for businesses, and to streamline delivery, doing more to support good-paying B.C. manufacturing, restaurant, and hospitality jobs in an uncertain and challenging global economy,” Popham told CityNews in a statement.
As well, she says, LDB distribution of all these products will remain an option.
— With files from Cecilia Hua and David Nadalini
