Loblaw, union reach tentative agreement

Loblaw and the union representing 28,000 of its workers in Ontario reached a tentative agreement last Monday, following seven straight days of negotiations.

Negotiations between the retailer and the union beganin February. In early May the union members voted 97% in favour of going on strike. At the time, the UFCW said it was seeking improvements to wages, work schedules and benefits. It was also looking to limit third-party providers.

The union also said its workers should share in Loblaw’s improved financial performance after several years of the company restructuring.

The locals represent workers at Loblaws Great Food, Real Canadian Superstore, Zehrs, Zehrs Great Food and Fortinos stores.

On May 26, Loblaw and the union resumed bargains.

The local unions' negotiating committees are unanimously recommending the tentative agreement to their members.

Ratification meetings are being scheduled across the province, where members will have the opportunity to vote on the tentative memorandum of agreement.

Details of the settlement will not be released publicly until voting is concluded.