Cold Lake cafe closes after separatist events cost customers

A Cold Lake cafe called Beantrees has closed its doors after its owner hosted events for an Alberta separatist group, costing him a significant portion of his customer base. According to Global News and the Edmonton Journal, owner John Ewanek said the business—a local hub since 1999—was already struggling with inflation when he began hosting petition signing events for Stay Free Alberta in early 2026. The events drove away customers who disagreed with his views, and the cafe shut down in late June.

Ewanek told Global News he lost about 15% of his revenue, but the Edmonton Journal quotes him as losing one-third. He said musicians cancelled appearances and someone left a sign with an expletive outside condemning the separatist events. Ewanek bought the cafe in late 2024 and had adjusted the menu to reflect his philosophy against corporate farms, but made no secret of his opposition to Canada's vaccine mandates and the federal government.

The closure comes as Alberta's separatist movement gains traction. Elections Alberta recently announced that the Stay Free Alberta petition was successful, verifying nearly 223,000 of almost 280,000 signatures, well above the required 178,000. Premier Danielle Smith cited the petition as a reason to put a separation question on the Oct. 19 referendum, asking Albertans whether they want to remain in Canada or hold a second, binding referendum on leaving. Ewanek said he plans to vote in favour of a second referendum.

The story illustrates the risks small business owners face when mixing politics with commerce, especially on a divisive issue like separatism. Cold Lake, a city of nearly 20,000 near the Saskatchewan border, relies heavily on the military base 4 Wing, and residents have strong opinions. The cafe's closure may serve as a cautionary tale for other entrepreneurs considering political activism in their businesses.