Canada Malting Bargaining Has Officially Started
Your UFCW Local 401 Canada Malting bargaining committee met with Canada Malting on April 9th and 10th to begin negotiations for the renewal of your collective agreement.
We had early discussions and exchanged proposals. Your union’s proposals were built directly from the input you and your coworkers provided through surveys and proposal meetings.
These proposals reflect the real concerns you’ve shared—about your working conditions, the cost of living, and the stress so many families are under in Alberta’s ongoing affordability crisis.
“Wages, benefits, and security aren’t abstract concepts—they’re about whether your family can thrive,” said Richelle Stewart, Secretary-Treasurer of UFCW Local 401. “We bring forward proposals with intention, knowing they reflect your lived realities and your hopes for a better tomorrow.”
The employer also brought forward proposals. They might suggest their ideas serve both parties –but we will let you be the judge of that.
Canada Malting Employer Proposals
Among the employer’s proposals are two significant takeaways:
- A benefits cost-sharing model, meaning you’d be paying out of pocket for part of your benefits.
- The complete removal of your Education and Training Fund, which many of our employers contribute to in order to support the education and training of union members.
We have to ask: Is this the time to ask workers to give up more?
“The employer is fully aware of the pressures workers are facing,” said Thomas Hesse, President of UFCW Local 401. “Suggesting takeaways in the middle of an affordability crisis is not just short-sighted—it’s insulting to the people who keep this company running. We’ll continue fighting for gains, not losses.”
Your committee is standing strong. We’re committed to defending the rights, benefits, and compensation you’ve earned—and to pushing for improvements that reflect your value and your future.
Stay tuned for further bargaining updates. If you have questions about the process or are interested in attending a bargaining session, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jeff at the union office.
In solidarity,
Your Union Bargaining Committee
For a printable version of this document, click here.
Posted on: April 17,2025