As we near the Labour Day long weekend, we would like to share an LCBO supply chain update.

Overall, as we moved through the summer, we saw consistent improvements in fill rates and our in-stock position as we work closely with our suppliers and partners to navigate the continued impacts of COVID-19 on consumer shopping patterns and as many of our supply partners worked towards fulfilling orders. While we have not returned to business as usual, and customers continue to favour tried and tested products, large formats, and value brands, things are moving in the right direction. Thank you for your support as we continue to monitor the situation and adapt accordingly.

As our partners, we have committed to keeping you informed on developments that may interrupt our service levels and there is another event that, coupled with the issues stemming from pandemic, we anticipate will further impact supply over the coming weeks.

Like many of you, we have been monitoring the continued labour action at the Port of Montreal, which has shut down the movement of containers through the port and all terminal operations are closed until further notice. Those of you impacted by this are well aware that some steamship lines are diverting shipments that would normally be processed through Montreal to other eastern Northern American seaboards, including Halifax and St. Johns, however, we are allowing for increased transit time for these inbound imported products. As such, product availability, particularly imported brands from Europe and Mexico, will be impacted.

This may also have impact to imminent promotions planned with our Trade partners and are working collaboratively with those of you in this situation on forward-looking solutions as needed. We will also continue asking for our customer’s patience and understanding if they find themselves unable to access the exact product they are looking for.

Thank you and, as always, if you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your Customer Service Representative (for Specialty Services shipments) or respective Inventory Leader directly. 

Sincerely,

Nick Nanos

SVP & Chief Supply Chain Officer, LCBO