Diageo will shut its Crown Royal bottling plant in Amherstburg, Ont., this February. Union vows to fight the “devastating” closure for 160 workers.
Company Announces Shutdown
Global spirits maker Diageo confirmed it will close its Crown Royal whisky bottling plant in Amherstburg, Ontario, in February 2026. The company said the decision was part of efforts to increase efficiency by moving bottling operations closer to U.S. consumers.
Impact on Workers
The closure affects about 160 employees represented by Unifor Local 200. Union president John D’Agnolo described the decision as “shocking and devastating,” stressing the facility is the town’s largest employer and a benchmark in the community.
Timing and Suddenness
Workers were informed of the closure only hours before the announcement. D’Agnolo said no prior discussions were held about improving operations, and the company framed the move strictly as a business decision.
Community Consequences
Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce President Dan Gemus warned the shutdown will ripple through the local economy, as families reduce spending and small businesses already strained by tariffs and inflation face added pressure. Mayor Michael Prue has also voiced concerns over the town’s tax base and employment stability.
Company’s Broader Strategy
While bottling in Amherstburg will end, Diageo emphasized that Crown Royal whisky will continue to be mashed, distilled, and aged in Canada. Operations will remain in Gimli, Manitoba, and Valleyfield, Quebec, with Canadian headquarters and warehouses in the Greater Toronto Area.
Push for Action
Unifor vowed to fight “like hell” to keep the plant open, calling on all levels of government to intervene. If closure proceeds, union leaders said they will demand financial support for affected workers while continuing to campaign for Canadian manufacturing jobs.
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