Posts Categorized: Organizing

On March 19, workers at the PetSmart store in Royal Oak, Mich., voted to join UFCW Local 876. This organizing win marks the third unit of PetSmart workers to join the UFCW. Workers at the PetSmart store in Mishawaka, Ind., became the first PetSmart store in the county to unionize by joining UFCW Local 700 in October 2024, and workers at the PetSmart store in Midland, Texas, voted to join UFCW Local 540 this January.

The 13 workers, who are employed as cashiers, dog groomers, and store leads, joined our union family due to concerns about equal pay, the company’s recent restructuring plan, and other company policies. The campaign to organize these workers included phone calls, texts, meetings.

“The decision by PetSmart workers to join UFCW 876 is a powerful statement about the need for fair wages, respect, and a real voice at work,” said UFCW Local 876 President Dan Pedersen. “These workers care deeply about the communities they serve, and they deserve that same level of care from their employer. We’re proud to stand with them as they fight for a strong contract that reflects their hard work and dedication; when we fight – we win!”

Over 300 direct support professionals at 20 Karis Disability Services locations in Ottawa, Canada, recently joined UFCW Local 175 for the better wages and benefits that come with a union contract. These workers provide support and services to adults with exceptional needs who require assistance in their day-to-day lives.

Some of the concerns that led these workers to seek union representation included better wages and benefits, more fairness and less favoritism, improved working conditions, seniority and job security, and professional recognition.

“Our union provides a collective voice, empowering workers to negotiate with their employers,” said UFCW Local 175 President Kelly Tosato. “We know these workers provide exceptional support for their community and they will achieve great things in bargaining to ensure they and their co-workers have all the resources and support they need to do this important work.”