Gateway FreshCo: Bargaining is a Major Grind

We finished our third day of negotiation on Friday, May 8th, and unfortunately, we still do not have any signed, agreed-upon items to report. 

The company’s lawyer is causing difficulties in a couple of ways. Clarity in the writing and formatting of his proposals, so that we can clearly see what changes he’s asking for, has been an issue. His insistence on changing the wording of every clause in the contract is also an obstacle.

For example, in the health and safety proposals, we have had to respond to the company trying to change the word “shall” to “will,” then change “shall” to “must,” four times. 

“It is difficult to negotiate when the company lawyer makes you act as their secretary,” said Chris O’Halloran, Executive Director for UFCW Local 401. “We have to format and fix every proposal to submit a reply.” 

“If it’s not broken and it’s not a problem, don’t try to fix it,” continued O’Halloran. “This has always been my motto for negotiations, and it’s frustrating when you have to fight over silly changes like ‘shall’ to ‘must’.” 

It is our hope that the company will direct their lawyer to stop playing anti-worker games and move negotiations along faster in the future. It would also be helpful if they put an offer on the table that actually speaks to wages and benefits. 

We will keep you up to date as bargaining continues. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you’d like to attend open bargaining, contact Chris O’Halloran at [email protected] (by phone at 587-999-6448), or reach out to James Russwurm at [email protected] (or by phone at 587-990-3228). Stay tuned for further updates!

In Solidarity,

Your Union
UFCW Local 401

Posted on: May 12,2026