Local micro distilleries in Quebec are facing significant difficulties, including financial problems that have led to several closures in recent years.
CJMQ spoke with Pierre-Luc Dusseault, a former Canadian politician who became the youngest MP in history at 19 and now runs a micro distillery in Sherbrooke.
Reflecting on his transition from politics, Dusseault shared, “Life is great. It’s been four years since I completed my second mandate, and I’ve always had a passion for spirits.”
Dusseault explained that the main issues for these distilleries are low profit margins and high production costs, especially for those using the grain-to-glass process. To address these challenges, he advocates for lower taxes and additional distribution channels beyond the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) to help these small businesses thrive.
Former politician turned small business owner weighs in on challenges of running a microdistillery
