Ontario remains the only province in Canada to maintain an anti-small business, pro big-box retail restriction to deal with COVID-19. It isn't working. Will we see changes this weekend when restrictions in Toronto/Peel are to expire?

CFIB has proposed (in order of preference):
1. A % capacity restriction for all retailers, as most provinces have.
2. A "Small Business First" strategy allowing all stores to serve up to 3 customers in-store.
3. Limiting big-box stores to grocery/pharmacy items (as in MB, QC).

3 weak reasons have been offered as to why Ontario allows big box stores to sell what they like, while closing small retailers.
1. Big box-stores would have supply chain issues.
2. One-stop shopping is better.
3. Consumers won't like it.
All seem like BS.

There is little evidence that in-store retail shopping (esp in small shops) is leading to COVID spread, but growing reports that online distribution centres have many cases among workers. I think a credible case can be made we are shutting down the wrong part of retail.

I know govt believes shutting down small retailers will lead to people staying at home. But it is clearly not doing that. Retail sales remain strong, but have shifted to big-box stores, w longer lines both in/out. This has worse COVID spread potential & is killing small biz.

Many are calling on CFIB to sue govt. The first lawsuit against Ontario's bizarre retail policy (by an appliance store) has failed. Hudson's Bay has another. The advice we've received suggests a court win against govt emergency powers is nearly impossible.

Others are calling on CFIB to promote civil disobedience. In fact, there is a growing group of biz owners planning to re-open despite the rules. I hear from them regularly. They tell me, "what do they have to lose as they face bankruptcy"? It is getting harder to argue with them.

To be clear, as a business association leader, I do not recommend taking the law into one's own hands. But I understand what is motivating some to take this extraordinary step. This is why we need an immediate change to the rules - to something that is strict, but fair.

The vast majority of business owners get that we are dealing with a serious issue & restrictions are understandable. Most have spent a small fortune (of $ they don't have) to protect their staff/customers. But the unfairness of Ontario's rules has made them angry at their govt.

CFIB will continue its work for fair rules in all provinces until this is over. We will continue to push for full compensation for businesses shut-down to protect society. We will continue to take thousands of calls to answer questions from Canada's business owners.