Bargaining begins at Alberta Distillers
Your Bargaining Committee has officially begun negotiations with the Company.
We met with the Company on June 5 and 6, and again on June 11–13, 2025.
These first meetings were about setting the tone and exchanging our opening proposals. We talked about a number of issues, like layoffs, job postings, union representation, and discipline. We also made progress by agreeing on a few smaller housekeeping items. This is just the beginning, but it’s a solid start.
A NEW MORE OPEN APPROACH
Under the current leadership of President Thomas Hesse and Secretary Treasurer Richelle Stewart, our union is doing bargaining a bit differently this time.
We’re focused on keeping things open and transparent.
That means we’ll keep you in the loop with regular updates and more chances to get involved.
“Workers deserve a voice not just at the table, but throughout the entire bargaining process,” said President Thomas Hesse. “We’re going to make sure the members of Alberta Distillers are heard loud and clear.”
“Your solidarity makes all the difference,” added Secretary Treasurer Richelle Stewart. “We’re proud to stand with you and fight for a contract that reflects your true value.”
To keep things open, we’re sharing the full opening proposals from both your Union and the Company.
Click to read the Union proposals
Click to read the Company proposals
These are just starting points, but we already have concerns with some of the Company’s proposals. It’s still too early to know exactly what their priorities are but we’ll keep a close eye as things move forward.
WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER
Getting a fair contract will take all of us. Your Bargaining Committee will keep doing everything we can at the table, but we need your support on the floor too.
If you didn’t get the proposals by email, please contact our office to update your info. Or you can ask one of your Bargaining Committee members for a paper copy.
WHAT’S NEXT
Our next bargaining dates with the Company are: July 21–23, 2025
We’ll send more updates as bargaining continues. In the meantime, feel free to reach out to any member of your Bargaining Committee if you have questions or feedback.
Posted on: June 13,2025