Cannabis dispensary workers join the union – UFCW 1006A

Hamilton, Ont. – March 25, 2021 – UFCW 1006A recently welcomed their newest members from the Tokyo Smoke cannabis dispensary, located in the Stoney Creek neighbourhood of Hamilton, Ontario.

The eleven dispensary workers voted overwhelmingly in favour of union representation in an online vote conducted by the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB). 

“Our local is proud to be the number one choice for cannabis workers seeking a voice and fairness at work,” said Wayne Hanley, UFCW 1006A President. “Our newest members at Tokyo Smoke have shown the tremendous power workers have to create positive change when they are united and committed to making their workplace better.”

Key issues for the workers included health and safety, staffing, benefits and having a voice along with representation at work.

“This union is a win to ensure the cannabis space remains progressive, fair and just,” said Kathleen Quinn, UFCW 1006A member. “We want dignity and equity for all.”

The new bargaining unit consists of workers employed as Educators and Key leads.

“Solidarity was the key to our members’ victory at Tokyo Smoke,” said Lesley Prince, UFCW 1006A Organizing Director. “Increasingly, cannabis workers are turning to our union to ensure their voices are heard and their interests and rights are protected in the highly profitable cannabis sector.”

UFCW Local 1006A represents 36,000 members in a wide range of sectors across Ontario, including the grocery retail, food processing, hospitality, laundry, warehousing, transportation, and eye care industries. To read more about UFCW 1006A and its outstanding work, visit the Local Union’s website.

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