Government Worker Strike in British Columbia Temporarily Closes Cannabis Distribution Centers

A nearly month-long government employee labor strike in British Columbia, Canada, has resulted in the picketing and closure of cannabis distribution centers across the province. Cannabis distribution centers in British Columbia, Canada, are being temporarily closed due to a strike by members of the B.C. General Employees Union (BCGEU), Global News reports. The strike is in its fourth week, and picket lines have gone up at alcohol and cannabis distribution centers in British Columbia; however, the sector is unlikely to see an impact for a few weeks.  

In a message to affected industries on Tuesday, the BC Liquor Distribution Branch said it is implementing quantity limits on all products, except for beer and Bordeaux wines, until the centers resume normal operations. 

“Hospitality customers and retail customers will be limited to three items per SKU, per day. This includes refreshment beverage products that come in 4-packs, 6-packs and other formats.” — BC Liquor Distribution Branch, in a notice, via Global News 

In all, more than 12,500 public service workers are now engaged in action at 63 sites across the province, including 33 active picket lines – part of the longest public strike in B.C. history. The union says it is asking for an 8.25% pay hike, while the province says it offered a 4.5% increase in wages and cost-of-living increases over two years.