Unity bargaining achieves tentative Loblaw agreement for 15,000 UFCW Members in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba

Toronto – October 7, 2013 – UFCW Canada Local 401 in Alberta, Local 1400 in Saskatchewan, and Local 832 in Manitoba have all gained tentative agreements with Loblaw: benefiting more than 15,000 UFCW Canada Members. The Unity Bargaining efforts of the three Local Unions played a central effort in securing the tentative agreements with Canada’s largest food retailer.

In Alberta, the tentative deal was reached this morning after UFCW 401 members and allies fully mobilized in strike actions that engaged community members and consumers across the province.

“It is crystal clear that the threat of a strike had some impact on Loblaw’s approach to negotiations,” says Local 401 in an update on its Facebook page. “But the difference was made when employees walked off the job.” UFCW 401 adds that the enthusiasm and solidarity of picketers finally got Loblaw to understand the need for a greater balance in workplace relations. Local 401 also reports that customer support for the action was overwhelming.

“As the details of the tentative agreement are finalized and a plan for a smooth return to the stores is considered, it is important that Loblaw continue to understand that we are committed to bargaining strong together until a new deal is finalized,” adds UFCW 401.

In Saskatchewan, a tentative agreement was also achieved by Local 1400 on October 3: benefiting thousands of UFCW 1400 members who work at several Loblaw banners across the province, including Superstore, Extra Foods and Wholesale Club. 

In Manitoba, Local 832 gained a tentative agreement with Loblaw on September 26, benefiting thousands of UFCW Canada members across the province.

In keeping with the Unity Bargaining strategy, all three Local Unions will now begin the ratification process.  

To get the latest information on Loblaw negotiations in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, please visit:

UFCW Canada Local 401 website and Facebook page.

UFCW Canada Local 832 website and Facebook page.

UFCW Canada Local 1400 website and Facebook page.