Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down: Is Dropping the CWB Brand the Right Move?

It wasn’t all that long ago that if you wanted to really heat up a room full of western Canadian farmers, you’d simply have to mention the Canadian Wheat Board. Shortly thereafter, the battle lines would be drawn between those who fully supported the board’s government-mandated monopoly and those who wanted it abolished.

Then came August 1, 2012, and Stephen Harper’s government made good on its word to remove the monopoly powers of the Canadian Wheat Board. Shortly after, the bricks-and-mortarless grain company rebranded as “CWB,” and in the years following began its plans to build elevators, acquire shipping ports and more.

CWB took a major step toward privatization in April when it was announced that Global Grain Group (G3), a partnership between Bunge and a Saudi-based company, would buy a majority stake in the grain business. Late last week, the final nail in the CWB’s coffin was driven, as G3 completed the deal and along with it, announced the discontinuation of the CWB name.

Which brings us to this week’s Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down poll — Good idea or bad idea? Is G3 making the right move in killing the CWB brand? (Secondary question: Does CWB merchandise now become a collector’s item?)

Have your say in the poll below, and leave your reasons in the comments.

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