UFCW 401 Advances Strong Economic Arguments in Collective Bargaining With Safeway/Sobeys

As negotiations with Safeway move forward, your union is advancing strong economic arguments to ensure we secure fair and just compensation for our members. We’ve been consulting with Canadian economist Jim Stanford, a highly respected expert in the economics of the retail food industry, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the economic situation.

Jim’s analysis, which spans both macro and micro levels, has been a critical resource in framing our position. His expertise is unparalleled, and his insights are invaluable as we advocate for you at the bargaining table.

Thomas Hesse, President of UFCW Local 401, emphasized the importance of this partnership, saying, “We have been consulting with Jim for some time. He provides outstanding expert economic analysis both at a macro and micro level. He is undoubtedly an expert in the economics of the retail food industry.” Hesse went on to explain that despite the strength of the union’s economic arguments, Safeway has yet to provide a single counter-argument or engage with the analysis presented. “The company talks about pressure on this business, but they have never once said they cannot afford wage increases. In fact, they have refused to open their books and justify their bargaining position with real economic data,” Hesse noted.

EMPIRE GROUP NET INCOME (PROFITS)

At the same time, Richelle Stewart, UFCW Local 401’s Secretary Treasurer, highlighted the undeniable rise in the cost of living that affects all of us. “The cost of living in Alberta has increased so much it is shocking to see that cities like Calgary and Edmonton are essentially as expensive to live in as cities like Vancouver and Toronto,” Stewart remarked. This dramatic shift in the cost of living has made it increasingly difficult for working families to make ends meet, and it underscores the need for wage increases that reflect these economic pressures.

HOUSEHOLD COST OF LIVING BY CITY

With the cost of housing, groceries, and transportation all on the rise, UFCW Local 401 is committed to ensuring that Safeway recognizes the financial challenges workers face. It is clear that Safeway can afford to meet our demands, but it is up to us to continue pushing for a fair deal.We remain united in our efforts to secure a contract that reflects the hard work and dedication of all UFCW Local 401 members.

The fight continues, and we will keep you updated as negotiations progress.

In solidarity,

Your Union
UFCW Local 401

Posted on: December 19,2024