Cannabis members at The Joint celebrate first contract victory – UFCW 832

Winnipeg –  Over 100 cannabis members across The Joint locations in Manitoba are celebrating a contract victory after voting overwhelmingly in favour of accepting their first collective agreement. “We’re proud of the new members who stood up for their rights to join UFCW 832 and worked together to not only organize their workplace but also […]

IUF advances UN’s Decent Work Agenda in agri-food sector

Geneva –  An IUF group of experts, which included UFCW Canada, worked to achieve policy guidelines, for the first time, to promote the UN’s Decent Work Agenda for the agri-food sector. The new guidelines are the result of an intense round of tri-partite bargaining that was facilitated by the International Labour Organization (ILO), and involved […]

UFCW activists rally in support of the Canada Disability Benefit

Toronto —  People with disabilities can't afford to wait. UFCW Canada supports the campaign by Disability Without Poverty and Inclusion Canada calling on the federal government to pass Bill C-22 and make the Canada Disability Benefit a reality. UFCW Canada stands in support of Disability Without Poverty’s campaign and rallies this month demanding that MP’s Ratify […]

UFCW Canada raises more than $1 million in 2022 for United Way Centraide

Toronto –  UFCW Canada has earned special recognition from the United Way Centraide as a 2022 Thanks a Million recipient and as one of the nation’s leading labour organizations have raised more than $1 million to support UWC’s work in communities across the country. “Through UFCW Canada’s collective action and generosity, we are able to make investments […]

Local unions, national collaboration turns hardship into dream opportunity for migrant group

Toronto – A group of migrant workers are feeling relieved and secure in their future thanks to the relentless support of UFCW Canada locals and the union’s long-standing advocacy efforts. Working and living in Canada was their dream opportunity which quickly went sideways when their hospitality employer in Niagara Falls, Ontario terminated their contract without […]

Start off Summer with new webCampus Courses

Toronto —  Start off your summer by starting new Micro-credentials now open for enrollment on webCampus. Database Dynamics: Micro-credential will provide you with skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and Access so you can navigate your data with ease. Learn more. Worker Advocate: Micro-credential will improve your practical leadership, emotional intelligence and personal brand. Learn more. […]

UFCW Canada activists join thousands of Ontarians in sending a message to Premier Ford that ‘Enough is Enough’

Queen’s Park, Ont. –  Activists from all walks of life joined together in a display of unity and solidarity on the one-year anniversary of Doug Ford’s election to the Premier’s office with a resounding call to action that ‘Enough is Enough.’ Answering the call made by the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL), community, labour, and […]

June is Indigenous History Month

Since 2009, June is declared National Indigenous history month in Canada. In June we reflect on the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, Métis peoples. June 11th is the National Day of Reconciliation, created in 2008, to mark the federal government public apology for the creation of the Indian residential school system. […]

Don’t Let Them Unravel our Pride and #Act4QueerSafety to Tackle Rising Hate

Toronto — As 2023 Pride season begins, 2SLGBTQIA+ Canadians are facing an unprecedented rise in hate. UFCW Canada is collaborating with national organizations to counter the 2SLGBTQIA+ hate occurring across the country. We’re also proud to support UFCW OUTreach and UFCW Women’s Network as they make available workshops on the 5 D’s and the Power […]

UFCW Canada stands with international allies in condemning the criminalizing of trade-union activists in Cambodia

Toronto  – UFCW Canada alongside international allies strongly condemns the criminalizing of trade-union activists in Cambodia after nine union leaders of the IUF-affiliated LRSU received prison sentences for their role in protesting the unjust termination of thousands of union members last year. LRSU President Sister Chhim Sithar was handed down the maximum sentence of 2 […]

National AccessAbility Week, May 28 to June 3

Toronto — National AccessAbility Week begins the last Sunday of every May. This week is to celebrate the valuable contributions and leadership of Canadians with disabilities, and to take action to create a better, more accessible, more inclusive society. 6.2 million Canadians aged 15 years and older identify as having a least one disability. Recent […]

By The Numbers: Disability and the Workplace

Toronto – As part of UFCW Canada’s ongoing advocacy for members living and working with a disability the national union released findings of its membership survey through its report entitled, Strengthening Disability Inclusive Workplaces Through a Union Approach. The report highlights some key takeaways that all disability justice advocates should consider during National AccessAbility Week […]

Agri-Food Pilot Program Expanded

Toronto — The Government of Canada has announced that they are expanding the Agri-Food Pilot, which will now run until May 14, 2025. Launched in May 2020, the pilot helps facilitate the transition of experienced workers in agricultural and food industries to permanent residence in Canada. The Ministry also announced the removal of the annual […]

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia & Transphobia 2023

May 17 marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia & Transphobia (IDAHOBIT). Created in 2004, IDAHOBIT seeks to raise awareness of the discrimination and violence that is experienced by two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (2SLGBTQI+) persons around the world. The commemorative date of May 17 also coincides with the 1990 World […]

Bea Bruske, Team Unite re-elected as 30th CLC Convention concludes

Montreal – May 15, 2023 – The Team Unite slate led by long time UFCW Canada activist Bea Bruske was recently re-elected at the 30th convention of the Canadian Labour Congress. Acclaimed to the position, Sister Bruske will serve another term as CLC President. Secretary-Treasurer Lily Chang, also acclaimed, will continue her role a new […]

Strength and solidarity on display at CLC 30th Constitutional Convention

Montreal – UFCW Canada’s own, President Bea Bruske welcomed over 4,000 delegates from unions across the country to Montreal for the 30th Constitutional Convention of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). The Canadian Labour Congress is the largest labour organization in Canada, bringing together dozens of national and international unions to help represent more than 3 […]

New webCampus Micro-credentials for May

Toronto – This Spring, get back to learning by starting on the new Micro-Credentials courses now open for enrollment on webCampus. Financial Essentials: This Micro-credential covers three ways of understanding finances: from a personal approach, public viewpoint and academic perspective.  To earn this micro-credential, you’ll complete: Understanding Budgets: What's at Stake; Money Skills; and Economics […]

BDM scholarship recipient looks to a future in law

Thetford Mines, Que. – UFCW 500 member and CEGEP de Thetford student Ariane Dodier is the latest recipient of the BDM scholarship award which will help further her goal of studying law. “As a humanities student the assistance provided by this scholarship will help in my pursuit of one day joining the legal profession”, says […]

UFCW family looks toward a Better Future as 9th Convention concludes

Las Vegas, Nevada  – The historic UFCW 9th Regular Convention ended with a renewed focus on UFCW’s unity and values across North America as our great union look towards a Better Future. More than 2,000 delegates and attendees participated in the four-day convention to debate issues, pass resolutions to strengthen our great union, help make […]

May is Asian Heritage Month

May marks the celebration of Asian Heritage Month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of people of Asian descent to Canada’s social, political, economic, scientific, and cultural landscape. Despite being officially declared by the Canadian government in 2002, Asian Heritage Month has been celebrated since the 1990s. Asian Canadians share a rich diversity in […]

National Day of Mourning

Toronto – April 28 marks the National Day of Mourning for workers injured or killed on the job.  In 1984, the Canadian Labour Congress established April 28th as the National Day of Mourning in Canada to remember and honour those who have died, been injured or suffered illness in the workplace.  The date was chosen […]

Over 2,000 delegates in attendance as UFCW 9th Convention kicks-off

Las Vegas, Nevada  — More than 2,000 UFCW delegates and activists from across North America gathered in Las Vegas as the UFCW 9th Regular Convention kicked off on April 24. The theme of the 9th Regular Convention is A Better Future. Taking place every five years, UFCW delegates from across Canada and the United States […]

Urge the Canadian government to legislate Anti-Scab Laws now!

The Canadian government has promised to implement anti-scab legislation this year. This legislation would prevent employers from hiring replacement workers, or "scabs," during strikes and lockouts. It is an important step towards protecting workers' rights and ensuring fair labour practices. The government has an excellent model for this legislation in NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice’s private […]

International Mother Earth Day 2023

Toronto – April 22 was designated as “International Mother Earth” day by the UN General Assembly in 2009. It recognizes that the Earth and its ecosystems are our home, and that it is necessary to promote harmony with nature and the Earth. The term “Mother Earth” reflects the interdependence that exists among human beings, other […]

Explore new opportunities with micro-credentials on webCampus

Toronto  – Explore new courses on webCampus this month with micro-credentials: Injury Prevention Specialists, Business Communication Essentials, and more. Injury Prevention Specialist – Make a difference in your workplace and help prevent accidents before they happen. Business Communication Essentials – Ensure more effective meetings, communicate through tough conversations, and speak to an audience with confidence. […]

International Day of Pink

Toronto – International Day of Pink happens every year on the second Wednesday of April, where people around the world wear their pink shirts and stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to continue the fight for equality and acceptance. Discrimination takes many shapes, whether it’s based on race, age, disabilities, gender or sexuality. The […]

Identity theft victim reactivated on Uber platform thanks to UFCW

Toronto  – Uber driver Yousef Omar Ibrahim Al-Hourani, a newcomer to Canada, is back on the road thanks to UFCW Canada representation, which helped him get reactivated on the platform after falling victim to identity theft. Al-Hourani was deactivated from the platform after learning that one of his documents submitted for the mandatory background check […]

Solidarity with Honduran farmworkers fighting for union recognition at Fyffes

Toronto – UFCW Canada extends solidarity to Honduran farmworkers taking bold and courageous action in protesting unsafe working conditions and calling on the company to end retaliation against union activists. Workers are demanding that the company recognize their right to join a union and sign the agreement drafted with IUF affiliate, El Sindicato de Trabajadores […]

Fill your baskets with union-made chocolate

Toronto – If you’re at the store shopping for the Easter Bunny this weekend, stock up on UFCW-made chocolate or candy. The average Canadian household spends $224 annually on candies and chocolate (source: Statscan) – and if you’re buying some this week, buy union-made. Below is a list of the products that UFCW Canada members […]

Equal Pay Day 2023

Toronto – April 4, 2023 – UEqual Pay Day this year is April 4, 2023. Equal Pay Day is a global event to raise awareness of the gender pay gap. It marks how many months into 2023 the average woman must work to catch up to what the average man earned in 2022.  The gender […]

UBC Doctor of Pharmacy student latest recipient of the BDM scholarship award

Vancouver – April 3, 2023 – UFCW 247 member and UBC Doctor of Pharmacy student Tim Le is the latest recipient of the BDM scholarship award which will provide him with some crucial financial assistance as he works through a dizzying second year in the program. “As a pharmacy student life can sometimes become a […]

International Transgender Day of Visibility

Toronto  – International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) occurs every year on March 31st. This day is dedicated to celebrating transgender people, their contributions to society and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide. The day was founded by US transgender activist Rachel Crandall of Michigan in 2009 as a reaction to the […]

UFCW Canada takes part in the United Nations CSW67 with a bold call to action

Toronto – The 67th session of United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) took place in New York City on March 6 – 17, 2023. UFCW Canada was represented by UFCW 175 Secretary-Treasurer, Kelly Tosato, UFCW 832 Secretary-Treasurer, Marie Buchan, and Chair of the UFCW Canada National Council, Women & Gender Equity Committee, Debora […]

UFCW Canada EPC stands in solidarity with striking UPEI faculty

Charlottetown, P.E.I. – UFCW Canada Eastern Provinces Council (EPC) activists showed solidarity with striking University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) faculty as they fight for better working and learning conditions. Strike action commenced on the morning of March 20 after UPEI faulty and administration were unable to agree on the terms of a new collective […]

Industry Snapshot: Canadian lamb sector punches above its weight

Toronto – According to Statistics Canada, the Canadian lamb sector continues to punch well above its weight by contributing strong margins to a stable and thriving meat sector. Lamb products are often overshadowed by the strength of the Canadian beef, pork and chicken markets, however it should not be lost on consumers the resilience of […]

Start your Spring with WebCampus

Toronto – UFCW Canada members have access to new tuition-free courses with WebCampus, including our new Leadership Essentials micro-credential. Take the three courses and earn your Leadership Essentials Micro-credential with Everyday Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and our new course Elevate Your Personal Brand, in partnership with Athabasca University. WebCampus is partnering with PowerED™ by Athabasca University […]

Next Group of Migrant Agricultural Workers Enters Pilot Project

Leamington, ON – Mexican MP Alejandro Rodrigues and UFCW Canada’s Pablo Godoy welcomed groups of Migrant Agricultural Workers in Leamington, Ontario this week. Over 70 workers are arriving in Canada this month as part of the Migrant Workers Representation Pilot between UFCW Canada and Mexican governments. The Migrant Workers Representation Pilot is a joint initiative between […]

BDM scholarship recipient perseveres through challenges and continues to achieve

Aurora, Ont. – UFCW 1006A member and first-year psychology student Taylor Nacevski is the latest recipient of the BDM Scholarship award and is grateful for the award that comes amidst trying circumstances. “Despite facing many challenges over the years, including the loss of my father, I have persevered to earn strong grades, work part-time and […]

Forging Unity at Broadbent Institute Progress Summit 2023

Ottawa – UFCW Canada joined with Canada's progressive leaders at the Broadbent Institute's 2023 Progress Summit. This annual event brings together progressives across the labour movement, academia, media and more to strategize how to face the challenges of the present and future in this time of increasing inequality and divisiveness. The focus of this year's […]

International Women’s Day 2023

Toronto – International Women's Day (IWD) is a time to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and girls everywhere. A time to recognize the women who inspire, and a time to renew discussions about the importance of gender equality in Canada and around the world.  The day also marks a call […]

By the Numbers – Gender Pay Gap

Toronto – As we approach International Women’s Day on March 8, we continue to fight against the persistent gender pay gap that persists throughout Canada. The gender pay gap refers to the difference in average earnings of people based on gender. It is a widely recognized indicator of gender inequities, and it exists across industries […]

Equity Grant Recipient: Rivercity Neurocast

Winnipeg, Manitoba – Sean Champion-Taylor is a UFCW 832 member in Manitoba and works in the grocery retail sector, and UFCW Canada Equity Grant recipient. He used his equity grant to help fund Rivercity Neurocast, a unique podcast about neurodivergence in Manitoba. Sean was inspired to create this podcast based on his own experiences as […]

UFCW Canada Stands in Solidarity with Ontario Nurses

Toronto –  On February 23, UFCW Canada marched in solidarity with the Ontario Nurses Association at their all-out picket actions across the province. Ontario’s 60,000 front-line hospital nurses and health-care professionals – members of the Ontario Nurses’ Association – are negotiating a new contract with their employers, the Ontario Hospital Association. The quality of health […]

BDM scholarship award helps member pursue a career in healthcare

St. John’s, N.L. – UFCW 1252 member and Centre for Nursing Studies student Emma Diamond is the latest recipient of the BDM scholarship award which she intends to use towards a successful first year of post-secondary education.  “I am very grateful to receive this scholarship and expand my knowledge in the medical field,” says the […]

UFCW members honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal

Toronto –  Several respected and valued members of our UFCW family have been awarded with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. This award is given to Canadians who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. In Alberta, Local 401 President Thomas Hesse was awarded the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal celebrating President Hesse's efforts in […]

Have a Heart Day – Help End Discrimination Against Indigenous Children

Toronto – This Valentine’s Day, lend your heart to a very important cause: Indigenous kids who deserve the very best care. Have a Heart Day was created by the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada to encourage us to remember those kids who are growing up far from their homes, and who cannot access a […]

Reactivated and ready to go, Uber driver back on the road with UFCW Canada help

Hamilton, Ont. –  Nazim Syed, an Uber X and UberEats driver is back on the road with the help of UFCW Canada representation. Syed, a driver based out of Hamilton, Ontario, reached out to Uber after he found his account had been deactivated over an issue regarding errors in his new vehicle’s safety documents and […]

Black History Month

Every February, we honour Black History Month by reflecting on the past and present contributions and challenges faced by Black people in Canada. This month is a time for all Canadians to educate ourselves on the history of Black enslavement and discrimination in our country, and how anti-Black racism is still deeply entrenched in Canadian […]

National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia

On January 29, 2017, six worshippers lost their lives at a Québec City mosque. Ibrahima Barry, Mamadou Tanou Barry, Khaled Belkacemi, Abdelkrim Hassane, Azzedine Soufiane, and Aboubaker Thabti were fathers, sons, husbands, brothers, and community members. This year will mark the sixth anniversary of that tragic night that changed our country – and the second […]

Disability Justice Priorities 2023

Toronto – UFCW Canada remains committed to strengthening disability justice and the tireless work of labour activists challenging systemic ableism in society. CBC live recently aired a radio segment hosted by UFCW 832 member Carlos Sosa. In this program, Carlos explores how people with disabilities are forced to get by with less and less in […]

Equity Grant Recipient: McMaster Hope

Bianca Mammarella is a UFCW 175 Union member employed in the grocery retail sector. She’s also a 2022 UFCW Canada equity grant recipient for McMaster Hope, a university-campus led initiative in Ontario which provides supports for prospective students facing adversity, along with addressing social justice barriers within the Hamilton region. Bianca is one of the […]

Industry Snapshot: Grocery Prices increased almost 10 percent in 2022

New numbers released by the federal government show that in 2022 grocery prices rose at the fastest pace since 1981 (source: Statscan) Prices for food purchased from stores rose 9.8% in 2022, the fastest pace since 1981, after increasing 2.2% in 2021. Food inflation increased in every food category (except for canned salmon).   The […]

Upgrade your skills this winter with WebCampus

As we find ourselves in the long winter months, take the time to improve your skills with new courses from WebCampus. With over 220 courses available for members and their families, you’ll find something that’s right for you. Featured Courses Winter 2023 Update Your Online Presence: Everyone that has ever used the internet has a digital […]

By the Numbers: CEO pay hits all-time high

CEO pay has hit an all-time high, according to a study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA). While inflation has hammered the rest of us, average pay for the best-paid 100 CEOs hit $14.3 million in 2021, smashing the previous record of $11.8 million in 2018. This represents a 31.2 per cent increase […]

Equity Grant Winners Announced and Applications Open

UFCW Canada is pleased to announce the 2022 Equity Grant recipients and highlight the work they are doing to advance equity and social justice within their communities.  About the UFCW Canada Equity Grant Program The UFCW Canada Equity Grant Program was first launched on December 10, 2020, to coincide with Human Rights Day. The program […]

NDP staff secure mid-contract victory – UFCW 232

Ottawa, Ont. – UFCW Local 232 members on Parliament Hill and across Canada are celebrating after winning significant wage gains and bonuses midway through their contract. The local represents the political staffers whose labour powers the federal NDP caucus as they represent their constituents and win victories for working people across Canada in the House […]

Standing together for fairness in 2023

With the holiday season upon us, and a new year awaiting, now is an appropriate time to reflect on the victories that UFCW activists achieved together this past year, while looking ahead to the challenges that await in 2023 and beyond. In 2022, our UFCW Canada family continued to advance in solidarity, with major organizing […]

UFCW Canada participates in National Farmers Union (NFU) 2022 Convention

UFCW Canada recently participated in the National Farmers Union (NFU) 2022 Convention titled, “Confronting Concentration.” Against a backdrop of risings costs, ballooning corporate profits and growing numbers of farmers leaving the profession, participants gathered to organize, educate and build solidarity. Participants were treated to a keynote address by Indigenous journalist Doug Cuthand, in addition to […]

HRED committees convene virtually to plan initiatives in the year to come

Members of the Human Rights Equity and Diversity (HRED) committee and UFCW Canada’s Indigenous Sub-Committee recently convened virtually to discuss the initiatives that will guide the committees’ work in the year to come. Members from various regions across the country shared knowledge about the meaningful ways their local union is challenging racism and workplace inequities […]

International Migrants Day

The United Nations (UN) proclaimed December 18 as International Migrants Day to recognize the contributions of migrants around the world and to acknowledge everything migrant workers do to help the economies of their host communities. The estimated number of international migrants has increased over the past five decades. Currently approximately 281 million people are international […]

UFCW Canada communicators working group convene in Toronto

Communicators across UFCW Canada’s national office and local unions convened in Toronto last week to learn, engage and share best practices and effective communication strategies that best serve the union’s diverse membership. Participants were treated to insights from our national survey that focused on membership sentiment and the messages that resonate most closely with members […]

UFCW Canada Rallies in Support of Injured Workers

UFCW Canada and UFCW Local 175 & 633 joined the Ontario Network of Injured Worker Groups outside the Ontario Ministry of Labour for a rally in support of injured workers. The Ontario Network of Injured Worker Groups is demanding that the Ontario government act and take basic steps to ease the awful poverty experienced by those who […]

Human Rights Day 2022

On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The Declaration stipulates universal values and international standards of human rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being. This annual date of observance commemorates the day the Declaration was adopted and is an opportunity to emphasize […]

2022 BDM Scholarship winners announced!

Toronto – December 5, 2022 – UFCW Canada is proud to announce the winners of this year’s BDM Scholarship Program. Every year, UFCW Canada offers 18 BDM Scholarships valued at $1,000 each to members and their dependents to help cover the costs of post-secondary education. Allocated by region across Canada, this renowned union scholarship is […]

UFCW Canada releases results of National Membership Questionnaire on Disability Justice Priorities

UFCW Canada announces the release of its newest resource entitled Strengthening Disability Inclusive Workplaces Through a Union Approach. The report outlines results from its national membership questionnaire distributed in Spring 2022. The report is released this December in observance of National Day for Persons with Disabilities recognized on December 3, reaffirming the union’s ongoing commitment […]

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

It has been over 30 years since the murder of 14 young women at Polytechnique Montréal (December 6, 1989). This act of violent misogyny shook our country, and December 6 was designated as The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. As we mourn their loss and remember the lives of the […]

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

December 3 marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, commemorated by the United Nations (UN) since 1992. The observance of the day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. On this day we reaffirm our commitment to continue fighting for […]

End Gender-Based Violence – 16 Days of Activism

Toronto – November 22, 2022– Gender-based violence remains a daily threat to women, two spirit, trans, non-binary and gender nonconforming people in Canada. This week, UFCW Canada commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25, and the start of 16 globally recognized days of activism to end gender-based violence. […]

UFCW Canada Honours Transgender Awareness Week & Day of Remembrance

Toronto – November 16, 2022 – This week we honour Transgender Awareness Week from November 13-19 and Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20. Transgender Awareness Week (November 13-19) The week before Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20 is recognized as Transgender Awareness Week, a time to help raise the visibility of transgender people […]

Explore new courses this month with webCampus

Toronto – November 15, 2022 – webCampus is offering a suite of new courses this month to boost digital skills competencies and promote health and safety in the workplace. Google Slides: offers an opportunity to learn about and perfect presentation skills using the Google offered suite of programs. Cybersecurity Awareness – Avoiding Human Mistakes: provides […]

Gold-rated Uber Black driver reactivated after being successfully represented by UFCW Canada

Toronto – November 9, 2022 – Gold-rated Uber Black driver Waseem Tipu has completed over 5,000 trips in four years working on the app but found himself in dire straits when the company deactivated his account due to an error with his insurance documents. “I had an issue with insurance documents uploaded to the Uber […]

UFCW stands shoulder to shoulder with Ontario’s labour movement in fight against Bill 28

Toronto – November 7, 2022 – UFCW Canada stands in solidarity with the Ontario labour movement as it galvanizes support for CUPE members who are locked in a bitter struggle with the conservative government of Premier Doug Ford who is seeking to curtail collective bargaining rights while running amuck of the nation’s constitution. Tens of […]

The Adonis Group warned for anti-union practices

Montreal – November 1, 2022 – The United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 500 (UFCW 500), which has been fighting for the respect and recognition of the rights of grocery store workers for the past fifty years, is pleased with the decision of the Administrative Labour Tribunal ordering the Adonis Group, owned by Metro, to […]

#ShowWeCare on the Global Day of Action for Care

Ottawa – October 27, 2022 – The Global Day of Action for Care is an opportunity to #ShowWeCare by supporting The Care Campaign launched by the Canadian Labour Congress. The Care Campaign has brought together thousands of care workers and those who rely on care to speak out against the broken care system impacting millions […]

This Hallowe’en, stock your treat bags with UFCW-made candy

Toronto – October 26, 2022 – As we approach the biggest candy holiday of the year, stock up on UFCW-made chips, candy or chocolate for your Trick-or-Treaters. This is one of the biggest months for candy purchases in Canada as cookies of sales, confectionery and snack foods at large retailers $613.2 million in October (source: […]

UFCW activists Light the Night for the life changing work of the LLSC

UFCW activists Light the Night for the life changing work of the LLSC   Toronto – October 24, 2022 – Commemorating another year of life-changing fundraising from coast, to coast, to coast, UFCW Canada members and Local Unions took part in the Leukemia & Lym phoma Society of Canada’s (LLSC) Light the Night event – held […]

Food workers build international solidarity at IUF global meat conference in Calgary

Food workers build international solidarity at IUF global meat conference in Calgary Food workers’ unions from around the world participating in the 2022 IUF International Meat Division Conference in Calgary, Alberta. Calgary – October 14, 2022 – Unions representing meatpacking workers from various countries around the world recently met in Calgary to build international solidarity […]

Migrant Workers Representation Pilot Begins in Toluca, Mexico

Migrant Workers Representation Pilot Begins in Toluca, Mexico   Click on the image above to see the photo gallery. Toluca, Mexico – October 12, 2022 – UFCW Canada Migrant Workers Representation Pilot with Mexican governments held an inaugural workshop in Toluca, Mexico on August 10, 2022. The Migrant Workers Representation Pilot involves governments in Mexico […]

Week Without Violence – October 17

Week Without Violence – October 17                                                   Toronto – October 11, 2022 – Throughout the week of October 17 – 22, UFCW Canada stands in solidarity with the YWCA’s campaign to raise […]

By the Numbers: Canadian Turkey Consumption

Toronto – October 6, 2022 –  With the start of October, turkey season is upon us, and new industry data reveals just how much Canadians love turkey. Consumption statistics from the Turkey Farmers of Canada, the national voice of Canadian turkey farmers, show that 2.7 million whole turkeys were purchased by Canadians during the 2021 […]

Make Mental Health and Well-Being for all a Global Priority

Toronto – October 4, 2022 – Every October 10 is World Mental Health Day and in 2022, it’s more important than ever before. Whilst the pandemic has, and continues to, take its toll on our mental health, the ability to reconnect through World Mental Health Day 2022 will provide us with an opportunity to re-kindle […]

UFCW Commemorates the 30th anniversary of Women’s History Month

Toronto – October 3, 2022 – 2022 marks the 30th anniversary of Women’s History Month – a time to celebrate the women and girls from our past, and our present, who are contributing to a better, more inclusive Canada. During this month, we commemorate the countless ways women contribute to our union and our society […]

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – September 30

Toronto – September 28, 2022 – On September 30 we commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation proclaimed by the federal government in 2021 as a day to reflect, learn and participate in reconciliation-based and Indigenous-led actions. UFCW Canada remains deeply committed to advocating alongside UFCW Indigenous members and allies for national recognition of […]

Last chance to win $18,000 in scholarships and referral prizes

Toronto – September 27, 2022 – To support members and their family with the rising costs of post-secondary education UFCW Canada offers 18 scholarships valued at $1,000 each to eligible members or their dependents. This year’s deadline to apply is just days away and will close after September 30 so don’t miss your chance to […]

UFCW Canada celebrates National Food Service Workers Day – September 25

The food service industry employs over 1.2 million workers across the country and represents tens of thousands of members across UFCW Canada local unions. On this National Food Service Workers Day be sure to thank the good people working at leading food service companies such as: Aramark, Compass Group Canada, Gate Gourmet, Sodexo Canada, OTG, […]

UFCW Canada joins hundreds of activists and allies calling for Regularization Now

Migrant worker activists and allies came together across the country calling for status and regular pathways to permanent residency and Canadian citizenship which would effectively end the vulnerability experienced by nearly 500,000 undocumented people in the country. In Toronto, activists convened at Christie Pits Park to hear from undocumented migrant workers who shared stories of […]

Industry Snapshot: Canadian pork sector struggling with labour shortages

The market for Canadian hogs continues to struggle with productivity as many processing facilities fail to meet targets amidst sector wide labour shortages. The country’s largest producers: Conestoga, Sofina, HyLife, Maple Leaf, Olymel and Aliments ASTA are harvesting upwards of 73,000 head per day short of 80,000 at max output with labour supply affecting nearly […]

UFCW Canada partners with governments in Mexico to launch pilot project in support of migrant farm workers

Toronto – September 12, 2022 – UFCW Canada is working with Mexican governments at the federal, state, and local level to launch an innovative program called the Migrant Workers Representation Pilot. The pilot project involves migrants participating in the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP) – a long-standing bilateral arrangement between Mexico and Canada and subset […]

Labour Day 2022: Renewed Purpose, Shared Responsibility

Toronto – August 31, 2022 – Labour Day 2022 provides us with an opportunity to celebrate our victories and advance a collective effort to improve the lives of all workers. If the current pandemic has taught us anything it is the importance of coming together to forge a better future. Through our collective efforts we […]

UFCW Canada celebrates Moncton Pride 2022

Moncton, N.B. – August 30, 2022 – After three long years Pride has finally returned to the City of Moncton where UFCW Canada activists joined thousands of revelers for the River of Pride Parade in celebration of LGBTQ inclusivity, community and diversity. The parade stretched across Main Street in downtown Moncton from Foundry to Downing […]

UFCW Canada 13th National Council Convention kicks off in Toronto

Toronto – August 23, 2022 – UFCW Canada members from coast to coast convened at the Westin Harbour Castle hotel in downtown Toronto to kick off UFCW Canada’s 13th National Council Convention. UFCW Canada National President Paul Meinema called convention to order after a traditional welcome from Chief Stacey LaForme of Mississaugas of the Credit […]

webCampus offers Exploring Digital Skills for tech-specific learning

Toronto – August 15, 2022 – UFCW Canada’s premiere training and education resource webCampus has recently updated a full suite of courses focused on Exploring Digital Skills for workers interested in tech-specific learning. Courses like ABC’s of Computing, Internet Safety, and Adobe Illustrator are perfect for the tech-inclined learner wanting to build their skills repertoire […]

Long-Term Care workers at Résidence Le Grand Manoir join the union – UFCW 1991-P

Saint-Jean-de-Matha, Que. — August 12, 2022 — Workers in the Lanaudière region have expressed their interest in organizing with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1991-P (UFCW 1991-P). Indeed, the sixty or so beneficiary attendants of the Résidence Le Grand Manoir located in Saint-Jean-de-Matha have decided to unite their voice with the thousands of members in some twenty […]

By The Numbers: Impacts of Rising Prices on Canadians

Toronto – August 10, 2022 – The latest infographic by Statistics Canada tells the story of rising prices across the country and its impact on Canadians. The data is clear that lowest income Canadians are struggling most with the nation’s unprecedented inflation. Areas most affected by rising prices: Food – 43% Transportation – 32% Housing – 9% […]

UFCW Canada observes International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples – August 9

On December 1994, the United Nations General Assembly declared August 9 as the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. This day of observance is an opportunity to bring attention to the history of colonization and the systemic barriers that Indigenous communities face here in Canada, or Turtle Island, and around the world. There are […]

UFCW Canada and Uber hold second quarterly meeting to mark six-month anniversary of historic agreement

Toronto – July 29, 2022 – UFCW Canada and Uber held their second quarterly meeting to address health and safety, representation, and advocacy issues, marking six months since the two parties signed a historic national agreement to better serve drivers on the platform. Since signing the historic national agreement, UFCW Canada and Uber have worked concertedly to […]

More workers at Darling International join the union

Hamilton, Ont. – July 26, 2022 – Workers at Darling International’s processing plant recently voted to join UFCW Local 1006A, weeks after members in the company’s fleet division also opted for unionization. The bargaining unit is comprised of 45 workers, meaning a total of 115 workers at Darling International are now represented by the Local Union.  “I am thrilled […]

UFCW representation gains results for Uber Eats courier

Ottawa – July 25, 2022 – Another victory has been achieved through UFCW’s advocacy for drivers and delivery people on the Uber platform, this time involving an Uber Eats courier who was deactivated without being able to explain his side of the story. Ottawa-based bicycle courier Mouktar Abdillahi Mohamed was shocked to see his Uber […]

Savour these UFCW-made chicken wings on National Chicken Wing Day – July 29

Toronto – July 22, 2022 – Every summer, Canadians across the country celebrate National Chicken Wing Day, July 29, by cooking up their favourite chicken wings, drumsticks, and other poultry products with friends, family, and neighbours.     Chicken wings are one of the most popular meat products in Canada and chicken wing consumption has steadily […]

UFCW EPC activists loud and proud at Halifax Pride Parade

Halifax – July 20, 2022 – Activists from the UFCW Canada Eastern Provinces Council (EPC) joined tens of thousands of participants from across the region for the 35th Annual Halifax Pride Parade, held on July 16. The parade was the first in-person march since 2019 and served as the centerpiece of the 11-day Halifax Pride Festival, which celebrates […]