Core-Mark: An Important Upcoming Vote!

As discussed in our most recent update, your Union Bargaining Committee has been in negotiations for a number of months with the employer to try to reach an agreement that reflects your needs and addresses the current cost of living crisis that we are living in.

So far, your Employer either ignores or overlooks your demands and continues to talk about remaining competitive and states that you are already paid more than some of your competitors. Unfortunately, these statements from the Employer do not help put food on your table or help pay for all the other rising costs that you are dealing with.

This is where your Bargaining Committee needs your help. We need you to send a strong message to the Employer to tell them that your needs are important and that what they are offering does not cut it in today’s economic reality. What one hours’ pay could buy you today is so much less than even a few years ago at the beginning of your current contract.

One way to show the Employer that you are prepared to stand up for your demands is to join the UFCW Canada National Defence Fund (NDF).

ABOUT THE NATIONAL DEFENCE FUND (NDF)

The NDF is your safety net and helps provide some security and support in these uncertain economic times. In the event of a strike or lockout, not only will your local union have the resources to fight even the biggest employer on your behalf, but you will receive extra strike benefits to reduce the financial impact on you and your family during this affordability crisis.

Knowing that you have additional financial supports needed to assist you, if a labour dispute ever occurred, sends a strong message to the Employer and lets them know that you are serious in your demands.

“The rising cost of living affects us all, and our contracts must reflect these realities,” remarked the President of UFCW Local 401, Tom Hesse. “By strengthening our position with the National Defence Fund, we’re not just protecting ourselves – we’re investing in our collective future.”

The cost of the NDF is less than a cup of coffee, at just $2.00 per week and is paid as Union dues so it is tax deductible. In the event of a strike or a lockout, with the assistance of the NDF, members at Core Mark would receive $500 per week tax free in picket pay. Without the assistance of the NDF, you would only get $300 per week.

“The National Defence Fund is more than just a financial safety net,” said Richelle Stewart, UFCW 401’s Secretary-Treasurer. “It’s a powerful tool that amplifies our voice at the bargaining table. In these times of economic uncertainty, it’s a prudent step to ensure we’re prepared for all scenarios.”

Voting YES to join the NDF will send a solid message to Core Mark that there will be consequences if they do not present an offer that addresses the current cost of living challenges.

THE VOTE

Please see the chart below for important dates and times of upcoming meetings and votes:

Pease reach out to your Union Labour Relations Officer:

• If you are in Calgary, please contact Jeff Ible at 403-291-1047 or by email at jible@ufcw401.ab.ca
• If you are in Edmonton, please contact Abdi Guled at 780-452-0362 or aguled@ufcw401.ab.ca

Joining the NDF is very important and sends a strong message to the Employer that your needs are a priority and you are prepared to stand together to achieve an outcome that properly addresses those needs.

In Solidarity,

Your Union
UFCW Local 401

Posted on: February 07,2025