Sobeys need to step up to help members in Canmore

Sobeys has seen a 15% increase in profit, and it is time for them to share that with members struggling to make ends meet in Canmore. We have heard from the membership about the hardships they are experiencing because of the increased cost of living and the lack of hours they receive at the Canmore Safeway. 

“It is time for Sobeys to step up and provide a premium to the members in Canmore to help and assist with the increased cost of living,” says UFCW 401 Executive Director Chris O’Halloran. “Inflation is at over 6% nationally and much higher in the Bow Valley, making it even harder for workers living here to keep up.”

We are pushing Sobeys to address these concerns and have asked them for a meeting to discuss a Letter of Understanding to initiate a $5.00 premium to help offset the increased cost of living in Canmore. We will also be tabling the same premium in the Banff IGA negotiations to support members there. 

We will also be starting a public campaign to inform residents and visitors to Canmore about what a Good Grocery store should do to support its workers during these difficult times. We will be asking members at the store to show their support for the increase by wearing a campaign button and engaging with customers if asked for details.

“We know a button campaign can be highly effective in increasing pressure on a large corporation like Sobeys,” says O’Halloran, “so we are encouraging as many members as possible to add their energy by wearing one.” 

Next week we will be sending out a survey to the membership asking for suggestions on a campaign slogan. Please contact Your Union office at 403-291-1047. Ask for Sandy, or the office administrator, if you are interested in helping with a button-making campaign or in sharing your ideas for a slogan.

Posted on: April 20,2022