Progress at Excel: Your Voice in Action

August 29th, 2025 

Excel Bargaining: Progress Through Solidarity and Strong Representation

Yesterday marked the end of six days of bargaining with Excel Balwin Villa and Grand Manor. During these sessions, we engaged in productive and respectful talk, with a primary focus on non-monetary proposals.

Together, we had meaningful discussions on several important issues, including job duties, non-discrimination, health and safety, shift exchanges, and staff meetings. We’re proud to report that we reached an agreement on six items that improve the language in your Collective Agreement, concrete steps forward that reflect your priorities and strengthen your rights at work.

Your bargaining committee has shown outstanding leadership through this process, clearly voicing your concerns, highlighting the strengths of our current agreement, and identifying where improvements are needed. Their commitment, preparation, and unity have been a powerful reflection of the solidarity within our membership.

“Albertans are feeling the squeeze of record-high costs for the basics of life,” said Thomas Hesse, President of UFCW Local 401. “That’s why bargaining isn’t just about words on paper, it’s about ensuring our members can stay above water through the life of this agreement. Securing rights and protections now is one way we fight back against an affordability crisis that threatens families across the province.”

Looking ahead, we will be holding a caucus on October 10th, followed by additional bargaining dates on October 14th and November 10, 11, 18, 19, and 20.

Richelle Stewart, Secretary-Treasurer of UFCW Local 401, added: “Progress like this comes from members standing shoulder to shoulder. Your voices and your trust in one another fuel the bargaining process and bring us closer to building the kind of workplace we all deserve.”

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please contact your bargaining committee members. Your input is vital, it strengthens our position at the table and ensures we continue to advocate effectively for everyone.

In solidarity,
Your Bargaining Committee

Paul Balamo
Norwin Killaris 
Cedith Mabtejada 
Feven Abraha 
Theresa Johnson 
Jana Fortier 
Sahil Sharma 
Amina Aden
Linda Mariani
Ryan Sapsford
Shauna Robertson

For a printable version of this document, click here.

Posted on: August 29,2025