Union Prepares to Table Strong Proposals
Tomorrow is our first day of bargaining with Sobeys to renew your next contract. Your bargaining committee and your UFCW 1518 staff negotiators, Stephen Portman and Ronda Melbourne, have met over the last week to strategize and prepare for the fight to win a strong contract that will help all of you build worker power in the retail sector.
Thank you to everyone who filled out your bargaining surveys. Your voices have been heard, and we’re prepared to amplify your message to the employer. Thanks to you, we have a strong mandate to seek the following improvements at the bargaining table:
- Fair and Equitable Wages: We won’t beat around the bush—we’re seeking the wage increases all Sobeys members need
- Increased Workplace Flexibility: Sobeys workers need more flexibility around scheduling & vacations so they can achieve work-life balance
- Improving Store Culture: Members submitted several strong ideas and ways that your contract can help build a better workplace. We’re looking to build more worker power on the shop floor
Stay tuned for more email updates! Also, check out our new UFCW 1518 Sobeys bargaining 2023 online resource hub — meet your committee members and stay connected to issues and news related to bargaining and grocery worker power.
We will keep you posted throughout the bargaining process on what is happening at the table and any actions that you can take to fight for a strong contract. But we need your help! If your coworkers aren’t getting our email updates or text messages, have them reach out to us at reception@ufcw1518.com with their full name, store number, employee ID number, email address, and cell phone number.
In solidarity,
Your Bargaining Committee:
Bob Milan – General Clerk – Kelowna/Interior – Grid A
Armin Reyes – Reline Crew – Provincial Wide – Grid A
Marlene White – All Purpose Clerk – Lower Mainland – Grid B
Angela Crosato – Cashier – Lower Mainland – Grid A
Peter Dombrowski – General Clerk – Fraser Valley – Grid A
Teresa-lyne Dziedzic – Pharmacy Assistant – Lower Mainland
Matt Rose – Baker – Kootenays – Grid A
Peter Dimond – General Clerk – Grid B – Prince Rupert/North
Shiela Scarr – Cashier – Grid B – Cashier
UFCW 1518 Staff negotiator, Stephen Portman