The Doug Ford government is closing some ServiceOntario locations. They plan to set up ServiceOntario centers in certain Staples Canada stores in early 2024 to make it easier for people in Ontario to access services like renewing their driver’s licenses. However, they did not mention that some centers would be closed down.
The government considered factors like store size, parking availability, the number of locations in Ontario, and willingness to participate during consultations with retail partners for the pilot. Staples Canada was chosen because all their stores met the province’s criteria. The government claims that customers will benefit from a 30% improvement in service accessibility hours.
According to the Ministry, ServiceOntario locations set to close will have a new location in select Staples Canada stores to ensure uninterrupted service. The government did not specify how many locations would close or when.
Employees from impacted private service providers will have opportunities to work with Staples Canada, while small businesses will continue with ServiceOntario’s in-person network.
