Cavendish Farms: Collective Bargaining Begins

Your Union Bargaining Committee met with the Company on September 15 and 16, 2026. As this marked the beginning of the bargaining process, the parties first had a brief discussion regarding process and logistics. Each side then delivered opening statements outlining their goals for this round of bargaining and beyond, followed by the presentation of their respective proposal packages.

The Company’s discussion points were primarily focused on production, efficiency, and quality, while also expressing concerns about the uncertainty surrounding any potential future impacts resulting from the ongoing Canada–U.S. trade discussions.

The Union placed significant emphasis on the substantial increases in the cost of everyday necessities, including groceries, utilities, fuel, housing, and many other essential expenses.

As these were the parties’ initial presentations, there was limited opportunity to engage in detailed discussions or negotiations regarding monetary items at this stage.

Open and transparent bargaining

Under the leadership of President Thomas Hesse and Secretary Treasurer Richelle Stewart, and with the support of the Executive Board, the local has adopted an open and transparent approach to collective bargaining.  This means that your Bargaining Committee will be providing regular updates and creating opportunities for you to be more involved as the process continues. 

As such, we are sending out copies of the initial bargaining proposals from both the Union and the Company. 

• You can download a copy of the Union’s proposals here. 
• You can download a copy of the Employer’s proposals here.

IMPORTANT: If you did not receive a copy of the proposals by email, please contact our office to update your contact information, and a copy can be resent to you.  Alternatively, you can pick up a paper copy of both proposals at the Union Office.

Please take some time to review the proposal packages and feel free to reach out to your Bargaining Committee members if you have any questions. 

Upcoming bargaining dates

Your Bargaining Committee has scheduled the following dates to continue discussions with the Company:

• October 20-22, 2026
• December 1-3, 2026 

Please stay tuned for further updates.

In solidarity,

Your UFCW Local 401 Union Bargaining Committee

Posted on: September 18,2026