Saskatoon, Sask. – April 17, 2019 – A five-month long strike at Saskatoon Co-op has ended, with more than 900 UFCW Canada Local 1400 members returning to work at the Co-op following the ratification of a new contract on Tuesday.

Throughout one of the coldest winters in Saskatchewan history, members held the line strong at over 20 picket locations.

The Saskatoon community also showed tremendous solidarity by refusing to shop at Saskatoon Co-op until the strike was over. The strike began on November 1 at Saskatoon Co-op grocery stores, gas bars, home centres, and liquor stores across the region.

“The strength and resolve of the membership during this strike was incredible,” says UFCW Canada Local 1400 President Norm Neault. “Their solidarity was never broken. The courage that the members showed throughout the strike resulted in a deal that guarantees Saskatoon Co-op will continue to provide good jobs.”

The newly ratified contract contains several gains, including annual wage increases of 2 percent, retroactive pay going back to 2016, and a signing bonus. The agreement also introduces a pay equity mechanism for newly-hired workers based on profit sharing. Altogether, members will see a 14 percent salary increase over the life of the agreement.

“Our thanks go out to the Saskatoon community and members of the Co-op for showing such amazing support during this fight for fairness,” says Neault. “Your solidarity helped bring the strike to a resolve and sent a message to the employer that Saskatoon Co-op workers must be treated fairly,” he adds.

UFCW Canada Local 1400 is Saskatchewan’s largest private-sector local union. To learn more about UFCW 1400, visit ufcw1400.ca.