Month: September 2023

We get it. Bargaining has taken longer than any of the parties had hoped when we started earlier this year. We want you to know that we have returned to the bargaining table with UFCW 1518 to work together towards a fair collective agreement. Bargaining is complex and often takes longer than either side might predict. We’ll meet with UFCW 1518 in September, and UFCW 247 and BCTGM 468 in October.

We want you to know that we are committed to getting the right deal in our next set of bargaining dates with each of these Unions.

While we are committed to reaching agreements with all three Unions this fall – they must be the right agreements, with terms that meet our objectives to modernize the agreements and allow us to compete in this province. There’s a lot of hard work ahead of us, but we have no doubt that we can get it done together.

We have made a lot of progress in the talks already and we know we can finalize agreements with real improvements on many of our common goals.

Keep checking in with us for updates on SafewayTalks.ca.

Since we began bargaining with UFCW 1518 and UFCW 247 earlier this year, it’s been our goal to ensure that you have all the information you need to stay up to date on progress.

We have learned that both Unions have made the disappointing choice to call strike votes in advance of our scheduled bargaining in September and October. We will continue to bargain in good faith. A strike vote will not change that.

On September 12 – 14, UFCW 1518 has asked you to cast your vote to authorize strike action. Dates for UFCW 247 bargaining unit members will be announced soon. No matter what your opinion is on the strike vote, it’s important that you’re fully informed and get your questions answered by attending the strike vote meeting and casting your vote.

Not voting means you’re leaving a critical decision about your job in the hands of others.

Your Store Manager may be able to answer your questions if you have any. Also, if you have any scheduling issues that impact your ability to attend the Union meeting, please speak to your Store Manager, who may be able to help.

Your vote matters, please exercise this right to make your voice heard.

A strike vote will not impact our approach to bargaining. We remain committed to working collaboratively with both Unions and bargaining committees to reach an agreement that balances the needs of our teammates and our business.

Thank you for continuing to support one another and our customers during this process.