HBC Logistics warehouse workers ratify new contract

TORONTO, June 30, 2022 /CNW/ - E-commerce warehouse workers at HBC Logistics have voted overwhelming at 80% to accept a new tentative agreement, ending a nine-day strike action.

"These workers stood firm with the full weight of Unifor behind them to successfully fight for retroactive pay to cover the time that they worked during the pandemic without a contract," said Unifor Ontario Regional Director Naureen Rizvi.

Workers line up to put their ballots in the box. (CNW Group/Unifor)

The more than 330 warehouse workers, members of Unifor Local 40, process online orders from across the country for Canada's flagship retailer The Bay at the HBC Logistics e-commerce facility in Scarborough, Ontario.

"The bargaining committee would never have been able to achieve what we achieved if not for the solidarity demonstrated on the picket line from these members," said Unifor Local 40 Vice-President Dwayne Gunness.

The new three-year contract contains wage increases each year for a total increase of 13.3% over the lifetime of the agreement in addition to up to $1,500 in retro pay per worker.

"As workplaces return to pre-pandemic conditions workers across warehousing and other sectors are re-evaluating, and in many cases, such as the HBC Logistics workers, are justifiably demanding more," said Unifor Assistant to the National President Len Poirier.

Highlights of the new collective agreement include:

• Wage increases for all members
• Retro wage payment of $1,500 per worker
• Total pay increase of 13.3% over lifetime of agreement (not including retro pay)
• Maintains employee benefit contribution at 2017 rate
• New language to guarantee right to participate in discussions on new technology

As the union for warehouse workers, Unifor's 'Warehouse Workers Unite' campaign gives voice to workers to improve working conditions in warehousing, distribution and logistics facilities across the country.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector and represents 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor

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