Solidarity bargaining begins for members at Great Food Stores & Real Canadian Superstores

Negotiations are underway for Members of UFCW Local 175 at Great Food Stores (GFS) and Real Canadian Superstores (RCSS) at 61 stores across Ontario.

The Union Negotiating Committee met on November 7, 2023, to review proposals and affirm the Local's commitment to solidarity bargaining with UFCW 1006A. This means that we have the power and strength of nearly 26,000 members coming together, working at Great Food Stores, Real Canadian Superstores, and Loblaws Great Food. The goal of the Union Negotiating Committee is to achieve the best possible collective agreements for the 12,800 members at GFS and RCSS stores.

With the first negotiation exchange complete, the next set of negotiation dates (as we go to press with this issue of Checkout) are set for November 21 – 24 and November 28 – 29, 2023.

Who is on your Union Negotiating Committee?

The rank-and-file members on the GFS & RCSS Union Negotiating Committee were elected from a group of more than 100 members on the Master Committee who attended a first meeting on September 26, 2023. Those 100 members were originally elected at proposal meetings earlier in the year. The GFS and RCSS Union Negotiating Committee has 11 members including several current Executive Board Members plus experienced Union negotiators and Union staff.

Solidarity is not just a word; it is a powerful call to action

Solidarity is a powerful force that reminds us that when we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, we become an unbreakable force for positive change. In a world where individual voices can sometimes feel lost, solidarity amplifies our collective voice, making it impossible to ignore.

Solidarity empowers workers to demand fair wages, safe working conditions, and a just distribution of wealth. It brings us together to advocate for a common goal. It's a reminder that the struggles of one worker are the struggles of all, and by standing united, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way.

During negotiations, solidarity becomes even more important. Standing as one unified force in support of your Union Negotiating Committee sends a powerful message.

Together, we are not just workers, but an undeniable force that can shape a fairer, more equitable world for generations to come. Together, we are stronger, our voices louder, and our impact greater.