The LCBO has quickly removed U.S. alcohol products from shelves in retaliation of President Donald Trump’s hefty tariffs, and some Canadians appear unfazed by the move, in fact they’re applauding it.
The move comes from a decision made by Ontario Premier Doug Ford merely hours after 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian imports kicked into effect on Tuesday morning. Since then, several videos have been posted to social media depicting some LCBO shelves completely cleared by staff.
One video posted to X shows an LCBO staffer removing popular whiskey brand, Jack Daniels, from shelves and stocking them into carts.
@nowtoronto LCBO staff in Kitchener, ON have already started removing American alcohol from shelves as part of Premier Doug Ford's retaliatory measures to Trump's trade war. #onpoli #LCBO #Ford #Trump #tradewar ♬ original sound – Now Toronto
Many Canadians are supporting the retaliatory efforts of boycotting American booze, even if it means finding new go-to alcohol and liquor brands.
“Now keep it off the shelves forever,” one X user wrote.
“Most provinces are doing this and most people support this 100 per cent,” another user wrote.
It’s happening. Good bye @JackDaniels_US — being removed from @LCBO as we speak @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/7Vw9HICX7y
— Joe Warmington (@joe_warmington) March 4, 2025
Some users are even taking the opportunity to encourage supporting Canadian-owned alcohol brands instead.
“There are so many great local breweries, wineries, and distilleries in our provinces,” an X user wrote.
“LCBO’s purchasing power is huge, hopefully this gives more opportunities to Canadian producers to get on shelves,” another user posted.
In a statement to Now Toronto the LCBO says, “U.S. products are being stored until further notice.”
THEFT RING TARGETTING LCBO STORES
Meanwhile, Peel Regional Police have also cracked down on a major theft ring targeting LCBO stores, with nearly $240,000 worth of products stolen.
According to police, the individuals stole the products between August 2024 and Feb. 2025, from 50 LCBO stores across various jurisdictions.
Police have charged five individuals with theft over $5000. Three individuals have also received additional charges, including Break and Enter with Intent to Commit an Indictable Offence, and Conspiracy to Commit Indictable Offence.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact Peel Regional Police or Crime Stoppers.
