We want to set the record straight on the incorrect statements made by UFCW 1518’s leadership.

Store closures are not lockouts

UFCW 1518 is incorrectly stating that the recent store closure announcements in BC are a lockout by Safeway. The reality is, these stores have been struggling for quite some time and would have closed regardless of the outcome of our current negotiations.

UFCW 1518 backed away from the tough conversations

Since June of last year, we tried to sit down with UFCW 1518 to review stores that were facing financial difficulty to keep stores open and save jobs, under a process set out in the collective agreement. Unfortunately, the union would not engage in that process. Our company can no longer operate stores that are losing money without a sustainable plan for the future.

UFCW 1518’s actions will drive customers away from our stores

Lately, UFCW 1518 has been handing out materials to customers that diminish our brand and credibility with customers. They have launched campaigns in the public eye focused on turning employees and customers against Safeway.

Tell your union representatives that the only way we can improve conditions is if we work together and allow our store teams to do what they do best, proudly serve their customers and communities. Negative publicity will only drive customers away.

We can only continue to strengthen our stores if we work together

We need a new labour deal that allows us to set solid terms to continue operating our Safeway stores in BC. We have a long history of working with our employees to face many challenges in this tough retail environment. As you know, we have faced some of our most difficult challenges during the recent ownership change. Every member of our team, in and out of our bargaining units, worked hard to address those challenges and we are seeing improvements. We can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done as part of this process.

FreshCo provides us with a unique opportunity to strengthen our business

FreshCo is an exciting opportunity that will provide jobs and strengthen our company overall. UFCW 1518 needs to work with us to reach a new agreement that will allow us to open FreshCo.

To solve the problems we are facing now, we need to roll up our sleeves and work together, as soon as possible.

As always, if you have any questions you can ask us here on Safeway Talks or talk to your store manager. Keep checking www.safewaytalks.ca for updates on this and other issues.