UFCW Local 175 Members at Metro (The Barn Markets) Ratify: Avoid Strike Action

MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - April 6, 2016) - Members of Local 175 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) who work at Metro stores covered under The Barn Markets collective agreement have ratified a new deal.

"Our members had voted to take strike action over their concerns if it had become necessary," said Shawn Haggerty, President of UFCW Local 175. "That strong message from the members allowed us to achieve a good deal with substantial improvements."

This agreement includes above industry average wage increases totalling $2.10 per hour over the life of the contract, plus improvements to premiums. Many of the health benefits for both full and part-time improve to include short and long-term disability as well as new coverage for part-time dependents.

Issues around scheduling were also addressed through negotiations. The new contract includes language dealing with Sunday scheduling including more options for full-time members. The contract also continues to provide for a minimum guarantee of hours for part-time workers.

The agreement covers almost 1,000 Unionized workers at nine stores including three in Hamilton, and one each in Brampton, Huntsville, Sarnia, Oakville, Dundas, and Tillsonburg. Voting took place on Sunday, April 3, 2016 at locations across the province.

UFCW Locals 175 & 633 represents more than 70,000 Union members working across Ontario, including more than 37,000 retail grocery workers at Loblaw, Metro, Safeway, and Sobeys banner stores across Ontario.