Your Voice, Your Bargaining Team: Sofina Calgary
The union contract at Sofina Calgary is set to expire next month, and preparations for a new agreement are well underway.
Thanks to your participation in recent bargaining surveys and our in-person proposal meeting, your union has received valuable ideas and input to help improve your working conditions. This strong level of engagement shows how much you care about your workplace—and how ready you are to make positive change.
We’re also excited to share that many of you stepped forward to be part of the bargaining process. This kind of participation builds union power and strengthens our collective voice.
Meet Your Bargaining Committee
After reviewing all expressions of interest, your new union bargaining committee has been selected. These members come from departments across the plant and are committed to representing you at the bargaining table:
- Cheryl Bubenchak – Packaging
- Marcell Wani – Packaging
- Adelard Tabala – Packaging
- Joana Rose Magpantay – Packaging
- Calvin Hval – Live Receiving
- Naser Montazer – Maintenance
- Shemsedin Yonis – Sanitation
- Maria Gina Quibin – Evisceration
- Effect Lopia – Live Hang
The committee recently met for two full days of training and preparation. Over the coming weeks, your union will assemble a package of proposals based on your feedback and the committee’s insights. Once those proposals are finalized, we will schedule in-person bargaining dates with the company.
“When members speak, and when they step forward to lead, it creates real momentum,” said Thomas Hesse, President of UFCW Local 401. “This is about more than bargaining a contract—it’s about building a more just and equitable workplace for everyone.”
Transparency and Participation
UFCW Local 401 is committed to open and transparent bargaining. Once bargaining dates are confirmed, union members are welcome to observe the process on their own time. Check out our video on Open Bargaining here:
If you are interested in attending bargaining sessions, please reach out to your Union Labour Relations Officer, Jeff Ible, at (587) 583-1501 or by email at jible@ufcw401.ab.ca.
“When we come together, listen to each other, and act with purpose, we can build stronger workplaces,” said Richelle Stewart, Secretary-Treasurer of UFCW Local 401. “Your ideas and involvement are the heartbeat of this process.”
If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas, don’t hesitate to contact your bargaining committee or reach out to Jeff directly.
In solidarity,Your Union Bargaining Committee
Posted on: April 03,2025