Mediator to assist Shoppers Drug Mart negotiations

The Union Negotiating Committee and representatives from Shoppers Drug Mart met on May 13th to negotiate a new collective agreement for members employed at Store #272 in Vancouver.

The discussions centered around non-monetary items such as the need for adequate heating during the winter months, problems with the cash-out procedures, and similar issues. Some agreement was reached on a few minor issues. This is not unusual this early in bargaining.

Although specific wage increases have not yet been discussed, Shoppers told the Union Negotiating Committee that the company is not interested in negotiating anything that will significantly increase their operating costs.

The Union Committee has made it clear to the employer they know the business is very profitable and that the members in the store should be rewarded for their contribution to this success.

The Labour Relations Board has been asked for a Mediator to assist the parties in negotiations from this point on.

The next bargaining meeting has been set for June 11th subject to the availability of the mediator.