Progress Report
Negotiations with Save-On-Foods continued this week. The discussions focused on improving scheduling.
We have now had 12 days of bargaining and in that time made progress in many areas. We have not yet entered monetary (wage) discussions—but we know this is a top priority.
Our members have been clear—they want an agreement that provides more work/life balance and they need wage improvements.
UFCW 1518 members have been working tirelessly, especially as Save-On-Foods has continued to grow across British Columbia. And while we recognize that growth and investment in stores is important, this growth has come with an increased workload and demand on our members. You deserve to be recognized for your hard work and contributions to your employer’s success.
As prices continue to rise, financial pressure continues to mount on many UFCW 1518 members. Reaching a new contract for you to vote on is critical—that is why we are pushing the employer to provide more dates to bargain so that we can get the job done.
As you may know, the Province of British Columbia announced a province-wide minimum wage increase to $16.75, effective June 1, 2023. This news comes at an opportune time as we can maximize its benefits for higher wages for everyone.
When our committee returns to the bargaining table, we will be focused on negotiating the wage proposals our members have said matter most to them.
In solidarity,
The Save-On-Foods Bargaining Committee:
Jaime Emerson – Abbotsford – Pharmacy Assistant
Jimbo Grant – Maple Ridge – Cross Classified
Dave Diamond – Kelowna – Cross Classified
Erica Jones – Pitt Meadows – Cross Classified
Josephine Bustin – Tsawwassen – Post-2013 Dept Manager and former Restaurant
Chris Holowka – Prince George – Cross Classified
Anita Letendre – North Van – Cross Classified
Marylou Fonda – Ft St James – Cross Classified
Joel Simmons – Nanaimo – Post 2013 Dept Manager
Katie Guerin – Kamloops – Cross Classified
David Gutierrez – Surrey – Cross Classified
(liaison to the committee for Pharmacy discussions) Cheryl Vincenzi – Central Fill
UFCW 1518 Staff negotiators: Stephen Portman and Ronda Melbourne