Posts Categorized: Grocery

Members of UFCW Local 501 who work at the Avril Distribution Center in the town of Granby in Quebec, Canada, recently ratified a first union contract. Avril is an independent Quebec-based supermarket chain and the workers are employed in the bulk, transport, warehouse and supplies departments; and as buyers; receiving and operations assistants; truck drivers; lift truck operators; production clerks; controllers; coordinators; day laborers; stock keepers; material handlers; pickers; receiving operators; and technicians.

The two-year contract marks a significant step forward for these workers in terms of wages and benefits, consolidating the gains made by the workers and introducing significant improvements to existing working conditions.

The contract provides for an average wage increase of 8 percent, applied retroactively to May 1, 2024, with the introduction of a 36-month progressive salary scale. In addition, wage increases of 2.5 percent went into effect on November 1, 2024, and will go into effect on November 1, 2025, respectively, guaranteeing continued improvement in financial conditions for UFCW Local 501 members.

In addition, employees will benefit from paid sick days, with the allocation of three days in 2024, and the addition of a fourth day in 2025 for those who have accumulated a certain seniority. The preservation of all special working conditions is also central to this agreement.

This first contract reflects the determination of these members and their commitment to establishing a respectful and advantageous working environment for all. “We are proud to see their efforts rewarded,” said UFCW Local 501 Negotiator André Gingras.

On Oct. 28, over 11,000 members of UFCW Local 555 who work at Fred Meyer and QFC stores in Oregon and southwest Washington ratified a new contract.

The three-year contract, which was ratified by an overwhelming margin of the members, includes significant wage increases. The contract also maintains industry-leading health care coverage, enhances dental benefits, and strengthens retirement security.

“Our new contract gives me peace of mind knowing that my health care is protected and my wages will keep up with the rising cost of living,” said Dale Russell Cronin, who is a Fred Meyer employee and UFCW Local 555 board member. “I’m especially thankful for the improvements in dental benefits and retirement. It feels good to know we are a fighting union and when we work together, we win.”

“This contract is a victory for members of Local 555, who showed strength and solidarity throughout the entire fight,” said UFCW Local 555 President Dan Clay. “It was won by union workers coming together and by a community standing with them. After months of hard work, Fred Meyer and QFC workers have secured an agreement that ensures higher wages, stronger health care, and a stable retirement. The agreement also improves our process to address contract violations. This contract is going to change thousands of lives and it could only have been accomplished with the work and dedication of everyone involved and the support of our communities.”