After careful review, Safeway is in support of the recommendation put forward by mediator Vince Ready. While the deal includes terms that will increase costs at a time when cost control is so important, we have reviewed the proposal in detail and are able to support the recommendation.

Here are a few reasons why we support Mr. Ready’s proposal:

• The deal is a reasonable compromise which allows us to move forward collectively.
• It includes wage updates to align with current industry standards.
• It includes benefits and policy updates to support employees.
• It accounts for operational changes, like introducing third-party kiosks that will help our stores remain competitive in the challenging grocery market.
• It includes the ability to negotiate with the union, new terms and conditions that are appropriate when converting any store to a new banner. As we begin our expansion of the FreshCo Discount banner into Western Canada, this will allow us to work together to shape the agreements within each of these new stores.

It’s no surprise that our Safeway stores in Saskatchewan and across Western Canada have been struggling under high operating costs. We’ve been losing money and can no longer afford to do so without a clear path forward.

We need solid collective agreements in place that meet the needs of our employees and allow us to operate with lower costs and more flexibility to beat our competitors and address changing customer needs.

Together we can provide a collaborative work environment, grow the business and exceed our customer’s expectations.

RWDSU has scheduled meetings to discuss the proposal with members and give you a chance to vote.

We hope you will have your say on voting day.

Check in with us here at SafwayTalks.ca for updates.