As a result of our discussions under Section 54, we have been successful in our push for Sobeys to agree to offer additional voluntary severances to Grid A members in the stores that will continue to operate as Safeway in Kelowna, Kamloops and Vernon.

Earlier this year Sobeys announced that 6 additional Safeway stores would be closing and converting to FreshCo in Powell River, 100 Mile House, William's Lake, Kelowna, Kamloops and Vernon. 

Due to the limited options available for members to transfer to an existing Safeway store without having to move out of their communities, both Local 247 and 1518 engaged in discussions with Sobeys on additional severance offers to be made in the two  store bargaining units in the Okanagan.

This is a severance that will be calculated the same as the offers made to Grid A employees in the closure stores that have been announced as FreshCo conversions and will NOT result in any bought hours. 

It is important to note that there are a limited number of severances available so it is possible that not every applicant who applies will be successful. 

Once again, we do believe that this additional offer will open up additional spaces for people who want to transfer into the store as their first option if their store is converting to FreshCo. We worked collaboratively with UFCW 1518 through this process and are happy to report their members in these stores will also be receiving offers.  

Eligible Grid A members in these stores (Kelowna, Kamloops and Vernon) will receive notice by letter from Sobeys today (Monday) of their specific offer. 

If you have any questions or concerns please contact your Union Representative.