Fighting for Sofina Workers!

Joined by President Thomas Hesse and Treasurer Richelle Stewart, your bargaining committee met with Sofina bosses over the last few days. A government appointed mediator was present to offer assistance.  

Bargaining has gone on for a long time and today Sofina bosses presented what they call their “final offer”. The Offer is a mixed bag that has some positives and some negatives.  

At this point, and before we speak about the positives, it is important that we consider what worries us about the company offer. We are very close to the end of this process but your union continues to fight. 

We have a few grave and serious concerns about the company offer:

• It unfairly reduces compensation for Live-Haul and Long-Haul Drivers. 
• The offer does not include a clear and unqualified guaranteed weekly work week. 
• Additionally, the offer seems to discriminate against older workers by allowing the company to cut off benefits as you reach your senior years.  

The company has repeatedly complained that the turkey business is at risk. We are disappointed at the poor management at Sofina. It is their job to grow their market and to speak to consumers, it is not your job. You show up to work every day and work hard. It is time that they did the same.  

We have asked the company about the future of the plant but they have not yet promised that the plant will stay open for the coming years. 

“Families depend on this work. This fight isn’t just about wages –it’s about dignity, fairness, and being able to build a life. Our union will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Sofina workers until those values are reflected in this agreement.” –Richelle Stewart, Secretary-Treasurer

Unfortunately, we are also concerned about the ethics of company negotiators. Today they abruptly left the bargaining table even though your union wanted to continue to bargain.

It is likely that in the coming days, a vote on the company’s offer will be arranged. Attached is the offer that they presented today. We have asked the company to improve the offer as we continue to have serious concerns. We hope that they will act responsibly and hear the voices of Sofina workers.  

Sofina is a multi-billion-dollar company. If you Google them, you will see billionaire owners with yachts and jets. Your hard work makes these people rich. We are fighting at the bargaining table and we ask that you join in that fight and stand strong for yourselves and the hard and important work that you do.  

“When billionaires ask working people to sacrifice, it’s our job to push back. Sofina workers have shown up day after day with commitment and pride. They deserve a contract that respects their contribution—not one that punishes them for aging or strips away compensation from key roles like Live-Haul and Long-Haul Drivers.” –Thomas Hesse, President of UFCW Local 401

Stand by for more information. If you have any questions please reach out to Cheryl Watamaniuk by phone at 780-452-0362 (Ext. 1313) or by email at cwatamaniuk@ufcw401.ab.ca.

Click here to see the offer the company presented today.

For a printable version of this document, click here. 

Posted on: May 01,2025