Build your health and safety knowledge, skills with new webCampus courses

UFCW Canada's ground-breaking online education program, webCampus, has launched two new health and safety courses that can help you address hazards in your workplace and ensure that you have proper ventilation and good air quality at work.   The free online courses are being offered in English and are available to all UFCW Canada members and […]

Council of Canadians shows solidarity with UFCW food processing members

The Council of Canadians has joined the call to help UFCW Canada members at meat-packing plants >across the country by formally supporting our union’s campaign to protect food processing workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. In statement titled “Solidarity with UFCW Workers during COVID-19,” the council says that it stands in full solidarity with UFCW Canada […]

TONIGHT! Telephone Town Hall at 7:00pm (PST)

The next “Telephone Town Hall” for UFCW 247 members takes place tonight.  DATE: Thursday, May 28 TIME:  7:00pm (Pacific time) If we have your current phone number, all you have to do is answer your phone when we call you! (If we have your cellphone number on file, that is the number we will call; […]

$2 Covid pay still in effect as B.C.’s minimum wage to increase on June 1

The vast majority of UFCW 247 members continue to receive the $2 per hour premium pay introduced by most food industry employers in response to the Covid-19 crisis. The union continues to monitor this situation closely. In the US, the massive Kroger grocery company received a backlash after announcing it was ending $2 Covid pay […]

Loblaws announces end of “scratch baking” in Western Canada

Loblaws has just announced they are eliminating the last of the scratch baking in Western Canada and moving to an entirely par baked product as they have done in Eastern Canada.   Currently, approximately 75% of the bakery product offering is par baked, with the remainder baked from scratch in store. Par baked products are […]

Deadline to apply for $8,000 UFCW Charity Foundation Scholarship extended

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the deadline to apply for the 2020 UFCW Charity Foundation Scholarship, worth up to $8,000, has been extended to July to give applicants more time to complete their applications. As part of the extension, the online application for the scholarship (Part A) is due by July 10, 2020. To allow more […]

Covid-19 survey for B.C. residents

The BC Centre for Disease Control has created a Covid-19 survey for B.C. residents. "B.C. has flattened the curve and we are preparing to carefully re-start services, the economy and our lives. Your input is important as we develop our action plans," says the BC CDC. With most UFCW 247 members working on the front […]

Pledge your support for frontline workers

We’re UFCW union members and your neighbours on the frontline, working day and night across the country to make sure you have the food, healthcare, security and vital services you need to stay safe during the COVID-19 crisis. With your help, let’s make sure that health, safety and fairness are top priorities today and everyday […]

Mental Health Matters: Surviving COVID-19 webinar engages thousands on social media

With the COVID-19 pandemic presenting a range of new stressors and challenges for workers across the country, UFCW Canada has launched a new series of webinars aimed at helping Canadians maintain their mental health in this time of crisis. The first webinar in the series, titled “Mental Health Matters: Surviving COVID-19,” was a major success […]

Premier outlines plan to restart B.C. safely

British Columbians will move forward with safely restarting their province beginning in mid-May, according to a plan announced by Premier John Horgan. Under B.C.’s Restart Plan, government will work closely with public health officials, businesses and labour organizations to lift restrictions in phases, gradually allowing for more social and economic activity, while closely monitoring health […]

Loblaw President Announces Premium Extended to May 30th

Earlier today Loblaw President Sarah Davies released a document that was circulated among employees that announced the extension of the Essential Service Pay Premium to the end of May. This is the $2 per hour premium that was first introduced in March and has seen multiple extensions.

FOS vs s.106 of the Labour Relations Code: Two Different Processes

UFCW Local 247 and Sobeys will have the re-opener of the Collective Agreement decided by Final Offer Selection process pursuant to LOU No. 29.  LOU No. 29 requires that the final offer selection arbitrator hear submissions from each of the parties and then select one of the final offers as presented.  The final offer selection arbitrator does […]

By the Numbers: Canadians buying more food, spending more on groceries during COVID-19

A new Angus Reid survey on Canadian attitudes and behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic finds that the coronavirus has dramatically changed grocery shopping habits in Canada, with families saying they are buying more food and spending more on groceries than is normally the case. Entitled “COVID-19: Weekly Monitoring of Canadian Perceptions & Behaviour – Wave […]

FG Deli extends Appreciation Premium to May 30th

On April 29, management at FG Deli informed staff that the Appreciation Premium would be extended to the end of May. In their words, "It will be evaluated at that time to determine whether any further extensions are warranted."

Union and Sobeys Agree on FOS Dates

UFCW Local 247 and Sobeys have confirmed dates for a Final Offer Selection (FOS) hearing to resolve the negotiations that began last October. The parties will first present argument on May 20 on a preliminary issue and then full submissions to be made and argued on June 25 and 26. Both processes will be heard […]

#StopThePandemicAtWork on National Day of Mourning – April 28

April 28 is the National Day of Mourning, a time when Canadians across the country remember workers who have been killed, disabled, injured, or made ill on the job. The Day of Mourning is also a time for action, and this year’s focus is the global COVID-19 pandemic. While everyone is being affected by this international […]

UFCW 247 asks Loblaw to Postpone No Tax Sale

Loblaw has announced that in their Real Canadian Superstore locations in every province west of Quebec, they will be holding a “No Tax” event to run from Friday April 24th to Thursday April 30th. The sale pertains to non-food items such as toys, clothing, patio furniture, etc. UFCW 247 and other UFCW Locals in Canada […]

Improve your health and safety knowledge, skills with webCampus

Front-line workers are getting a lot of well-deserved praise and attention as they help keep us fed and safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. And the law is very clear about employers’ responsibilities to keep all workers safe from hazards and harm on the job. UFCW Canada’s ground-breaking online education program, webCampus, makes being aware of your […]

By the Numbers: Grocery shopping habits during COVID-19

A new survey of Canadian attitudes and behaviour during the COVID-19 crisis finds that the coronavirus pandemic has significantly impacted the grocery shopping habits of Canadians and their families, with a majority of people saying they are buying more food products than they normally would.  Entitled “COVID-19: Weekly Monitoring of Canadian Perceptions & Behaviour – […]

3 ways employers can help food retail workers on the front line

UFCW grocery members continue to work on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic and are doing their best to ensure that Canadians and their families get the food, beverages, and supplies they need to stay healthy and safe during this crisis. But in working through the pandemic, members are understandably concerned about their health, […]

Bonus pay for Safeway members extended to mid-May

Safeway (Sobeys) has announced they will be extending their recent bonus pay improvements until mid-May. The company also indicated that they now have more PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) available for members, such as gloves, face shields, and sanitation stations. 

Homemade protective masks donated this weekend for union members

Homemade protective masks have been donated this weekend to UFCW Local 247 members at some stores in Metro Vancouver, and the union is grateful to Erin Chapple of Burnaby (#makemasks) for her efforts. Erin wrote to Dan Goodman, Secretary Treasurer of UFCW Local 247, saying: “I am so impressed with the staff at my local […]

Loblaw extends $2 Premium to Mid-May

We have been informed by Loblaw that they have decided to extend the Essential Service Pay Premium program and review it again in mid-May. Similar to other retailers in the industry, in mid March Loblaw announced a $2 hour premium for employees, retroactive to March 8th.    Many companies have begun paying a “premium” on […]

Superstore employee registers a presumptive positive on COVID-19 test

An employee at a #1520 Grandview RCSS has registered a presumptive positive on a test for COVID-19. The Company informed the Union late Wednesday evening of the positive test and we agreed to allow them to communicate the result to store employees before posting anything. Union representatives were in the location Thursday, talking to members and dealing […]

Loblaws introducing voluntary temperature checks for fever

The union has been advised by Loblaws that the company will be introducing voluntary temperature checks in stores and warehouses for staff. Members will have access to a “no touch” forehead thermometer, located at their store or warehouse, so they can check their temperature for fever upon arrival at work. Because fever is typically among […]

Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) application now open

Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) application now open The CERB application portal opened today and workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic can begin to apply for the benefit according to their birth month. You can access the CERB application here To see answers to frequently asked questions about the CERB, click here Prime Minister Trudeau […]

Explore all that webCampus has to offer while social distancing at home

Thinking back a few weeks ago, before the COVID-19 outbreak became a global pandemic, many of us had a long list of things that we needed to get done. These things had priority at the time because we were busy contributing to our work and family. You might have even said to yourself, “I don’t have time […]

5 ways customers can do their part

Workers like UFCW 247 members on the frontlines of this pandemic are doing their part to make sure everyone gets the food and supplies they need from retail stores safely and efficiently. Customers need to do their part to help. 5 ways customers can do their part: One customer per cartStores are limiting how many […]

Cold Logic members (Sobeys warehouse) latest to receive premium pay

UFCW 247 members working at the Cold Logic (Sobeys) warehouse are the latest members to receive premium pay during the COVID-19 crisis. Union members at Cold Logic will receive: an additional $50 a week, regardless of the number of hours worked; if you work more than 20 hours a week, you will receive an additional […]

FG Deli provides premium pay, more safety measures for members

FG Deli Group, which employs UFCW 247 members at its facility in Langley, has announced it will provide premium pay of $2.00 per hour, retroactive to March 8, 2020. This is a temporary program that will be effective from March 8, 2020 to May 2, 2020, and it may be extended if needed. Members’ pay […]

New resource details federal support for workers affected by COVID-19

With more and more workers facing uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has launched a multi-billion-dollar aid package providing income support and benefits to workers impacted by the crisis, and a new resource from UFCW Canada helps workers and their families navigate and track this support. Called the “Federal government’s COVID-19 response: Income supports […]

Updated premium pay info for members working in Loblaws stores

Loblaws has provided details of how UFCW 247 members working for Loblaws company stores (Superstore, Extra Foods, No Frills, etc.) will receive their COVID-19  $2.00 per hour premium pay: All colleagues/employees on Workday Weekly paid colleagues/employees on Workday will see the first of these premiums deposited on their April 2nd pay, including a lump sum […]

On the Front Lines: UFCW food manufacturing members

While a growing number of businesses are closing as part of escalating government measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, UFCW food manufacturing members remain on the front lines of the crisis working hard to supply grocery stores and help feed Canadians and their families during the coronavirus pandemic. Whether they are producing breads, cakes, […]

Safeway members – health benefit coverage extended to May 31

Safeway members – health benefit coverage extended to May 31 The Trustees of the UFCW Health and Welfare Trust Plan recognize that our members and their families are experiencing varying levels of uncertainty during this global crisis. As a result, the Trustees have approved benefit coverage continuance to assist those who may struggle to meet the minimum […]

Enjoy webCampus from the comfort of your home

Ongoing efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic mean that more and more of us will be spending time at home in the coming days and weeks. If you have been wanting to acquire new knowledge and skills, but haven’t yet had the chance to do so, now is an excellent time to take advantage of the amazing […]

Plexiglass barriers at Superstore checkstands (photos)

Below are photos of the new plexiglass barriers being installed by Loblaws in Superstore locations:  The union continues to be advised that employers are working as quickly as possible to put these protections in place for members working in the stores.

Fresh St. Markets rolls out $2 per hour premium pay

UFCW Local 247 members working at Fresh St. Markets Fleetwood (Surrey) and West Vancouver locations are the latest grocery store workers to receive $2 per hour premium pay. The additional $2 per hour will be applied to all hours worked between March 8 and April 30, 2020. The company advises that as the April 30 […]

Sobeys announces bonus pay

Sobeys has provided the following bulletin to the union regarding bonus pay for Sobeys (Safeway) members: SOBEYS COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) – Update #10 March 22, 2020  Support for our Operations Heroes!  Our operations teams are playing an absolutely vital role in providing Canadians with the food, medicine and essentials they need for their families […]

Loblaws to pay $2 per hour bonus retroactive to March 8

Although it has not yet been formally announced, Loblaws will be paying a bonus of  $2 per hour to all current members in their retail banner stores and distribution centre who are actively working. This is in recognition of the incredible job retail food and distribution centre members have been doing in the face of […]

Loblaws and Sobeys announce new COVID-19 protections

Loblaws and Sobeys have announced a number of new safety measures they are introducing to protect employees and customers from the COVID-19 virus. (see below) “This is a really stressful time to be working in the stores,” says Dan Goodman, Secretary-Treasurer of UFCW Local 247, “and we ask members to continue doing all they can […]

On the Front Lines: Canada’s food retail workers

As communities across the country continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, UFCW Canada members are on the front lines working to help Canadians get the food, supplies, and sanitation products they need to stay healthy and safe. This is especially true of the tens of thousands of UFCW members working in the food retail […]

Union in talks with grocery employers about employee safety

UFCW Local 247 members in busy grocery stores are on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis, and the union wants members to know union leadership and staff are in discussion with employers to improve safe practices and protections for members. “We have contacted Loblaws, Sobeys, and other retail grocers, to talk about active measures […]

New hotline number for non-medical COVID-19 questions

A new telephone hotline has been created to take pressure off BC's existing health line, 811. 811 is the number British Columbians should continue to call to reach health professionals if you or a family member are experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 or any other health-related issue.  The new hotline is meant for non-medical questions as […]

COVID-19 info for UFCW Local 247 members

COVID-19 info for UFCW Local 247 members Since it erupted in early 2020, the COVID-19 virus has triggered the biggest public health crisis in 100 years. Staff at UFCW Local 247 have monitored the situation closely for its impact on union members, remained in regular contact with the employers, and stayed up to date with […]

International Women’s Day – March 8

International Women's Day – March 8 International Women’s Day is celebrated across the globe each year on March 8 after its first occurrence in 1911. This year’s theme is: An equal world is an enabled world. Gender equality is essential for families, organizations, governments, economies and communities to thrive. A gender equal world can be healthier, […]

Labour movement celebrates paid leave for workers dealing with domestic and sexual violence

The BC Federation of Labour (BCFED) is lauding the BC government’s announcement of five days of paid leave for workers fleeing domestic and sexual violence. Under current laws, workers fleeing violence face lost wages, making it harder for them to access the supports and services they need.   “Today’s announcement is a significant step forward […]

Update on Safeway (Sobeys) negotiations

As reported on February 20, the union is preparing for a Final Offer Selection arbitration with Sobeys regarding the Safeway contract. (No date is yet set for Final Offer Selection arbitration to take place.) Recent developments in mediation hearings between UFCW Local 1518 and Sobeys are likely to have an impact on UFCW 247’s positions. […]

SAY NO TO CONVERSION THERAPY IN CANADA

 Calling all UFCW Canada activists and allies: your urgent support is needed to help stop the backward practice of conversion therapy, which is ruining lives in the LGBTQ2IS community and encouraging discriminatory and harmful attitudes towards sexual orientation and gender identity in Canada. Conversion therapy includes any measure taken by any person, business, or organization […]

webCampus: free online courses for union members and their families

webCampus is UFCW Canada’s premiere online training platform for UFCW Local 247 union members and their families. Our courses are designed to engage participants, and are absolutely free to members and their families. Whether you want to upgrade your skills or learn new ones, you can learn on any device connected to the internet. For […]

Mediation for Safeway negotiations sees limited progress

On February 18, the Union Bargaining Committee for Safeway and company representatives met for a day of contract talks with the assistance of mediator Mr. Wayne Moore.  While there were some issues resolved, by the end of the day the major issues remained outstanding. At this time, it appears that Final Offer Selection arbitration will need […]

Telephone Town Hall Draw Winners

The Draw winners from yesterday's Telephone Town Hall are: Sarah MacLean – FreshCo Maple Ridge Himyt Kang – Delta Superstore Jonathan Lambeth – Victoria Superstore Congratulations and thanks to everyone who participated!  

Apply now for the 2020 UFCW Charity Foundation Scholarship

The UFCW Charity Foundation Scholarship application process is now open to eligible applicants across North America. For over 60 years, the UFCW International Union has awarded union scholarships to recognize UFCW members and their dependents in both Canada and the United States. As part of the union scholarship program, the UFCW Charity Foundation awards several scholarships of up to […]

Show your heart this February 14

On February 14, activists can show their heart and share their solidarity for a better future for First Nations children, and for justice and safety for women and girls. Have a Heart Day is an annual call to bring equal funding and services to First Nations children living on reserve. Sponsored by the First Nations Children and […]

UFCW Canada observes Black History Month – February 2020

Every February, we honour Black History Month by reflecting on the contributions made and the challenges faced by Black Canadians throughout history. More than 1.2 million Canadians self-identify as Black, in a country where racism too often remains a reality and an insidious obstacle in our workplaces and our communities. In fact, a recent survey […]

February 13 – next Telephone Town Hall at 7:00 pm (Pacific time)

UFCW Local 247 has members living in every corner of B.C., and beyond. To better connect our widespread membership with the latest news and information from the union, we use Telephone Town Halls 4 times per year. The next “Telephone Town Hall” for UFCW 247 members will take place as follows: DATE: Thursday, February 13 TIME:  7:00pm (Pacific time) […]

BDM Scholarship helps UFCW 247 member focus on school

Krista Buder is one of eighteen winners of the UFCW Canada – BDM Scholarship. Currently enrolled in the Kinesiology program at the University of British Columbia's Okanagan Campus, Krista is a proud UFCW 247 member who works at Real Canadian Superstore. Sister Buder had the following to say about winning a UFCW Canada – BDM Scholarship: "Thank […]

Safeway negotiations update: one-day mediation Feb. 18

The Union Bargaining Committee for Safeway last met with the Company on November 14, when both sides put forward positions on the outstanding non-monetary issues, and by the end of the day, most of those were resolved. However, the limited discussion on monetary items went nowhere, as the Company insisted it wanted the same rollbacks […]

Share your opinion for a chance to win a $500 gift card!

UFCW Canada members are invited to share their thoughts by participating in a new survey — with a chance to win a $500 gift card! In 2019, thousands of UFCW members were invited to participate in research that UFCW Canada is conducting to learn more about Members’ Values: what UFCW Canada members from coast-to-coast feel […]

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

On behalf of President Suzanne Hodge and Secretary-Treasurer Dan Goodman, the staff and Executive Board of UFCW Local 247 wish all members and    their families a safe and happy holiday season, Merry Christmas, and a happy New Year in 2020! 

UFCW 247 Women’s Committee brings Christmas baking to women’s shelter

Earlier this week, members of the UFCW Local 247 Women's Committee spent the day at a women's shelter doing Christmas baking with and for the women and their children residing there. (Pictured l-r are Sandra Peters, Kathleen Allen, and Dawn Stevenson) The UFCW 247 Women’s Committee takes on activities that make a difference in the day-to-day lives […]

December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Toronto – December 4, 2019 – On December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, communities across the country gather to commemorate and reflect upon the tragic loss of fourteen women students at Montreal’s Ecole Polytechnique, who were brutally murdered in 1989 simply because they were female.  Thirty years later, young […]

Celebration of Life for Les Hague

Sadly, Les Hauge lost his battle with cancer on November 20, 2019. His family will be hosting a Memorial Service this Monday December 2: Langley Gospel Hall at 2pm, at 4775 221st St. V2Z 1M7 Les worked with many of us over the years and his family would love to see his Safeway family come […]

17th ANNUAL SHOE MEMORIAL – DECEMBER 6

The 17th annual Shoe Memorial in Vancouver takes place Friday, December 6 at the Vancouver Art Gallery (Georgia St. side). The event runs from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, with the ceremony starting at 1:00 pm. The Shoe Memorial honours the memory of murdered women with a powerful visual display of a set of shoes […]

Telephone Town Hall Draw Winners

The winners from our November 21 Telephone Town Hall draws are: Askhay Anand – member at Safeway 4970 Monica Plante – member at YIG 1815 Fidela Abarca – member at Superstore 1562 Congratulations!

Win a $100 gift card through UFCW bakes cake decorating contest

Attention all UFCW Canada members and family members: do you have a knack for cake baking? Are you interested in showing off your creative cake and decorating flair? Would you like to win a $100 grocery store gift card? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then the UFCW Bakes Cake Decorating Contest […]

Safeway Negotiations Stall

The Union Bargaining Committee for Safeway met with the Company on November 14 with the hope of regaining some of the momentum lost in the previous set of meetings. Both sides tabled positions on the outstanding non-monetary issues and by the end of the day most were resolved and there was some limited discussion on […]

November 21 – next Telephone Town Hall @ 7:00 pm (Pacific time)

UFCW Local 247 has members living in every corner of B.C., and beyond. To better connect our widespread membership with the latest news and information from the union, we use Telephone Town Halls 4 times per year. The next “Telephone Town Hall” for UFCW 247 members will take place as follows: DATE: Thursday, November 21 TIME:  7:00pm (Pacific time) […]

Upgrade your skills with new webCampus courses for November

UFCW Canada's ground-breaking online education program, webCampus, is launching four new courses for November that can help you become an effective health food clerk, learn more about emergency preparedness and response, and better understand health and safety law. The free online courses are being offered in English and are available to all UFCW Canada members and […]

Important info for union members working for Loblaw

The union has just been notified that Loblaw has a new procedure for employees to advise the company of a change to their address.  You no longer need to call the Colleague Info Centre, but instead log in to “Workday”.  Workday is the program that Loblaw now has that employees can use to change their […]

Safeway negotiations resume November 14

The Union Bargaining Committee for Safeway met on October 23-24, and negotiations on non-monetary issues continued.  The Union Bargaining Committee was focused on issues related to scheduling and availability, but little to no progress was made on these issues.  Further negotiations are scheduled for November 14. The Union Safeway Bargaining Committee is Sharon Tuerlings, Alicia Whitehead, […]

UFCW 247 Scholarship and Education Grant winners

Congratulations to all those selected, and a reminder that information and applications for scholarships and education grants for UFCW 247 members and their dependants can be found here: SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: Marilyn Rivas, dependant of member at Superstore 1556 Maria Minassian, member at Superstore 1558 Kelsey Guesford, member at Safeway 4924 Harjot Randhawa, dependant of member […]

Vancouver Light the Night fundraiser 

The annual Vancouver "Light the Night" fundraising walk took place October 19 in Stanley Park under clearing skies and with a great turnout.  Thanks to all those who came out for this terrific fundraising event for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada. Over the last 30+ years, UFCW Canada has raised over $43 million, including […]

Safeway negotiations update

The Union Bargaining Committee for Safeway met on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. The committee has made some progress working through some of the non-monetary issues that were proposed. They have two additional bargaining days set for October 23-24, where the committee hopes to continue working through those proposals.   The Union Safeway Bargaining Committee is Sharon Tuerlings, […]

Douglas O’Halloran, 1953-2019

Douglas O’Halloran, President of UFCW 401 for three decades, a UFCW International Vice President, and a pillar of the UFCW family and the labour movement, passed away peacefully on October 14 after a long illness, surrounded by his family. "Doug has been a good friend to UFCW Local 247 and we were, and are, very grateful […]

Endless Savings & More (ESM): Discounts on your smart phone for UFCW 247 Members

Download a UFCW 247 version of the Endless Savings & More App to save on everyday purchases from hundreds of businesses including national chain retailers, service and travel providers. Powered by Endless Savings & More (ESM), this program is available to UFCW 247 members and their families. How It Works: • Install the UFCW 247 version […]

Safeway bargaining update – negotiations underway

On October 1, Sobeys officials met with UFCW Local 247 and UFCW Local 1518 senior officials. In this meeting, Sobeys shared more detailed financial reports for both unions. On October 2-3, bargaining between Local 247 and Safeway began. Both parties exchanged proposals, and it came as no surprise to the Union Bargaining Committee that some […]

UFCW OUTreach launches new survey for LGBTQ+ members, allies

Attention all UFCW Canada members: your union’s constituency group for LGBTQ+ issues and advocacy, UFCW OUTreach, wants to hear from you! UFCW OUTreach has launched a new online survey aimed at measuring the impact of union values on LGBTQ+ workers. Your response is vital and once you access the survey, you can choose to complete it […]

Brew Up these UFCW-made products on International Coffee Day

October 1 is International Coffee Day – a day when we celebrate all things coffee and recognize the millions of people around the world who work hard to create and serve the beverage we all know and love. UFCW members proudly make a number of delicious coffee products, so on October 1, consider brewing up […]

UFCW Local 247 Scholarships & Education Grants-deadline Monday Sept. 30!

UFCW Local 247 Scholarships & Education Grants-deadline Monday Sept. 30! UFCW Local 247 is committed to awarding up to TEN (10) $1,500 scholarships each year to qualified member or their eligible dependants for full-time  enrollment (as defined by the educational institution).  It is also committed to awarding up to EIGHT (8) $750 Education assistance grants for part-time continuing studies or academic […]

UFCW Canada launches new resource for federal election

With the 2019 Federal Election campaign now underway, UFCW Canada has launched a new resource aimed at helping members and their families explore the key issues facing working people in this election, and learn more about where the parties stand on child care, the economy, retirement security, and more. Called “UFCW Votes,” the new resource encourages UFCW Canada […]

The Shoe Memorial is December 6 – can you donate a pair of shoes?

The Vancouver Shoe Memorial takes place each year on December 6 at the Vancouver Art Gallery. (Click here for TV coverage of the 2018 Shoe Memorial.) The Shoe Memorial honours the memory of murdered women by placing a set of shoes for each victim on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery, with their names displayed. You can help, […]

Arbitrator rules against union in FreshCo decision

In August we posted on the the decision of arbitrator McPhilips to choose the Company proposal with respect to the FOS hearing on the FreshCo wage scales. We have reviewed the decision with Legal counsel and have been visiting the FreshCo locations to discuss the decision with members. In our submission, Local 247 argued that […]

Union and Sobeys meet; talks scheduled for October

The Union Bargaining Committee for UFCW Local 247’s Safeway members met last week to discuss and prepare for negotiations, and later in the week met with the employer. Prior to meeting the employer, the Union Committee met among themselves to review issues relevant to UFCW 247 members and to discuss the Ready Award that was […]

Labour Day 2019 events around BC

Campbell River, Courtenay & District Labour Day Picnic  Merville Hall, 1245 Fenwick Road, Merville B.C. Monday, Sept. 2, 2019, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. East Kootenay District Labour Day Picnic Rotary Park, 100 – 10th Avenue South, Cranbrook, B.C. Monday, Sept. 2, 2019, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. https://www.eastkootenaylabour.ca/ Fraser Valley Labour Day Celebration Mill Lake […]

New resource helps you buy Canadian, union-made food

UFCW Canada, the union for food workers, has released a new resource for members, allies, and consumers that can help you and your family buy high quality, Canadian-made food by shopping union at your local grocery store. Dubbed “Great Canadian Food Products,” the new resource features dozens of delicious food products that are proudly made and sold by […]

Is your contact info up to date?

Is your contact info up to date? Does the union have your current address and contact information?  We have created a pop-up balloon that allows UFCW Local 247 members to quickly and easily update your contact information. You will see this pop-up for the next while when you go to UFCW 247's homepage. It really […]

Labour, health, environmental groups call on Canada’s grocers to ditch toxic receipts

Organizations seek the phase out of BPA and BPS on receipts by 2020 to protect cashiers and customers. Toronto – August 20, 2019 – UFCW Canada, Breast Cancer Action Quebec, Environmental Defence Canada, and Mind the Store have joined forces to launch a public campaign urging Canada’s leading grocery retail giants – Loblaws, Metro, Sobeys, […]

Telephone Town Hall Today at 7:00 pm (Pacific time)

UFCW Local 247 has members living in every corner of B.C., and beyond. To better connect our widespread membership with the latest news and information from the union, we use Telephone Town Halls 4 times per year. If we have your current phone number, all you have to do is answer your phone when we call you tonight […]

Sobeys bargaining committee to hear financial presentation

On August 28th the Union Negotiating Committee that will represent members at the bargaining table with Sobeys will be given a presentation from a Vice-President of Operations for the Company on the financial status of Safeway stores in British Columbia. A similar presentation was given to Local 1518 last year when they met with the […]