Advocacy in Action: Protecting a Local Brewery During a Tax Dispute
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a local brewery faced sudden and aggressive enforcement action from the provincial government over outstanding taxes, putting the business, its staff, and its future at serious risk. The BCRFA stepped in quickly, offering strategic guidance and engaging directly with senior officials to advocate for a fair and reasonable resolution.
The Challenge
A local brewery was facing aggressive enforcement action from the provincial government over a significant outstanding sales tax balance. Government auditors arrived on-site with the intent to seize equipment. This action took place during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, threatening not just the business but also its workers and the broader hospitality community.
What We Did
We advised the business owner to secure the premises to prevent equipment seizure and engaged senior government officials through the BCRFA. We emphasized the inappropriateness of pursuing enforcement during the ongoing pandemic and offered to escalate the issue to the media, prompting immediate reconsideration by the authorities.
The Outcome
As a result of our intervention, enforcement action was paused and auditors exited the premises, allowing the business to remain open and operational. A manageable repayment plan was negotiated with the government, avoiding further disruption. While no media scandal ultimately occurred, the potential for reputational damage played a key role in reaching a resolution. In the end, the business’s reputation and assets were fully preserved.
Why it Matters
This case highlights the critical role of timely advocacy in protecting small businesses, especially during times of crisis. It underscores how industry associations can provide not only strategic advice but also meaningful political leverage. The case also illustrates the importance of proportional and empathetic enforcement by the government during public emergencies.