The sales and management areas of the BBQ Québec company are now protected from their creditors, which entails a major restructuring within the company.
For almost two months, BBQ Québec has been taking steps to restructure the company, which has required, among other things, the layoffs of some employees. “We had a problem at the management level. We did everything we could to save the company,” explains BBQ Québec president Max Lavoie in an interview on the show À vosaffaires.
This restructuring also led to the closure of one of the four branches, the one in Montreal. “We have everything planned to support the employees in Montreal in terms of the internet and events,” adds Mr. Lavoie.
On the other hand, sales are going well in Boucherville, Quebec and Laval. “I try to stay positive, but I get emotional knowing that Quebec has supported us tremendously for 10 years,” he stresses.
10 years of “phenomenal growth”
“We were one of the fastest-growing retailers in America in 2019,” recalls the president of BBQ Québec.
On the other hand, he notes that the transition after the pandemic was a major obstacle. “Our general manager has withdrawn. The person who followed did not have the relevant skills. “It didn’t help us,” he says.
“Shovel in the forehead”
Max Lavoie and his brother love barbecue and wanted to spread their passion outside of Quebec. They filmed a complete television program and at the same time looked for new export partners. “But the numbers weren’t right. We were hit in the forehead with a shovel… This winter we are experiencing a slight crisis,” he explains.
However, despite this situation, the President mentions that “as an entrepreneur you can go to your knees”. It also reminds us of the importance of keeping our heads held high and taking care of our mental health.
The President confirmed that the three main stores in Boucherville, Laval and Quebec will remain open. The products are still on sale.