Last week, we shared with you that we were back at the table with your bargaining committee and UFCW 401. After some time away, we came to the table ready for constructive, collaborative conversations to work together towards a new collective agreement.

While we returned to the table as planned, we couldn’t help but acknowledge the strain that the bargaining process was placing on our stores and retail teammates, during a time of already increased pressure.

Since this global crisis began, employee and customer safety has been our number one priority. Our frontline teammates are serving Canadian families during a time of great anxiety. Our distribution centres are working around the clock, and our back-office operations are laser-focused on supporting our stores.

We know that this terrible crisis has also impacted our frontline teams. While bargaining last week, we noticed the increased stress bargaining was adding to our strong culture at Safeway. During this time of crisis, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from the bargaining table to continue focusing on the safety of our teammates and our customers. Alberta needs us. Canada needs us.

It is very important that bargaining positions are not confused with COVID-19 concerns. We need to continue focusing 100% of our efforts on operating as an essential service at a time when our communities need us more than ever. We have been at the bargaining table for over a year now and unfortunately, due to this crisis, we need a little more time. We look forward to getting back to the table to have proactive discussions in May as planned.  We need to stand together now, more than ever before. Our teammates have been doing an incredible job serving Canadians during these unprecedented times and we are so thankful for their efforts. Alberta families can rest assured knowing that together, we’re here to support them.