One of the most popular hangouts at Sauble Beach has closed in a protest with the Chamber of Commerce.
Lobbie’s is closed indefinitely after owner Jeff Lobsinger posted a sign stating just that outside of his restaurant on Wednesday.
Lobsinger claims the special Chamber events being held this summer are stealing his customers.
Lobsinger says the events sell food and drink at discounted prices and it has cost him a substantial amount of money.
Lobsinger wouldn’t give out a specific financial figure — but he says it’s not worthwhile to stay open.
Lobsinger feels it’s not fair that the Chamber is competing against local businesses instead of promoting them.
And he notes the Chamber was able to purchase a 25 dollar special occasion permit for the events while local businesses pay thousands of dollars in taxes.
Lobsinger claims he is not the only business suffering — he notes outside retailers are allowed to sell clothing on the beach and compete against local merchants.
Lobsinger says he will re-open as long as the Chamber and the Town of South Bruce Peninsula make some changes.
And those include not selling the same items as local merchants and getting local businesses involved in the special events.
