CHECKOUT SPRING 2026 - VOL XXXV NO 1
More than 6,000 Metro members across the province secure precedent-setting agreement... page 16
Meet the winners of the 2025 Outstanding Member Achievement Awards... page 12 NEW INITIATIVE! See the back cover for details on a new Member Engagement Committee!
UNION MADE
A season of giving back Local Union delivers $180,000 to food banks across Ontario through holiday season “Our Executive Board members know that our Local Union is well-positioned to offer this support, and I remain deeply proud of their ongoing commitment to the communities across the province where they live and work,” said President Tosato.
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More @ ufcw175.com/foodbanks2025
What’s Inside UFCW Local 175
UFCW Local 633
President Kelly Tosato
President Brian Kozlowski
Secretary-Treasurer Jim McLean
Secretary-Treasurer Julie MacCrae
Recorder Karen Vaughan
Recorder Lynn Swiderski
Executive Assistants Chris Fuller Lee Johnson-Koehn Angela Mattioli HOPE Sector Director, Long-Term Care & Retirement: Sandra Ashcroft; Union Representatives: Todd Janes, Dean McLaren, Maxine Prince, Mike Windley
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Staff Retirements and New Additions
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Welcome New Members
Political Action
Health Coalition Lobby, International Women's Day, and Equal Pay Day
Canna Cabana Waterloo
Directors, Community Care: Sabrina Qadir; Union Representatives: Sacha Edey, Kasiobi Nwankudu, Meemee Seto; Servicing Representative: Kirsten Hansen Region 1 Director: Tracy Stubbs; Union Representative: Alex Stubbs; Servicing Representative: Lynn Swiderski Region 2 Director: Jason Hanley; Union Representatives: Ricardo Bocanegra, Amanda DeMelo, Christina Mayberry, Mario Tardelli, Amy Tran Region 3 Director: Paul Hardwick; Union Representatives: Sean Carroll, Mirella Fornieri, Kimberly Hunter, Damian Hulshof, Joe Tenn Region 4 Directors: Matt Davenport, John DiNardo; Union Representative: Jennifer Hanley; Servicing Representatives: Maggie Brayson, Nunzio Cannistraci, Wyllan Dick, Art Gier, Patrick Griggs, Dawn Hanlon, Alan Reston Region 5 Director: Derek Jokhu; Union Representatives: Arlene Robertson; Servicing Representative: Liam Aikens-Armbruster, Kelly Dick, Sharon Jones, Justin Poirier Region 6 Director: Mike Mattioli; Union Representatives: Chris Mayberry, Nelson Pereira, Melody Slattery, Navidad Talbot, Fred Teeple, Ashleigh Vink
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Outstanding Member Achievement Awards 2025
Negotiation Updates
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Health & Safety Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)
Women's Resources, Sobeys, Metro, Amcor, and more
Region 7 Director: Shannon Epp; Union Representative: John Beaton; Servicing Representatives: Julie Jodoin, Skip Pavlick Region 8 Director: Derik McArthur; Union Representatives: Jeff Barry, Michael Bernier, Richard Eberhardt, Jim Hames, Peter Wasney Worker's Compensation Coordinator: Sarah Neath; Workers’ Compensation Intake Representative: Georgina MacDonald; Workers’ Compensation Representatives: Fatima Butt, Joanne Ford, Ashley Hunt, Anneela Perumal, Courtney Salomons
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Pay Equity Coordinator: Orsola Augurusa; Pay Equity Representative: Nabeela Irfan Health & Safety Director: Kelly Nicholas; Health & Safety Representative: Donna Rhodes Legal Director: Jane Mulkewich; Paralegal: Gord Steinberg; Counsel: Christopher Jagodits, Matthew Jagodits, Ambar Reyes, Brandon Rodrigues Organizing Director: Tony Nigro; Organizing Representatives: Alex Banaag, Joce Cote, Tim Hum, Jeffery Lu, Casey Magee, Gurpreet Singh
Workers' Compensation
Training & Education
Recouping money for Injured Workers & a WSIB Winter Rally
UFCW Canada BDM Scholarship Winners
Training & Education Director: Kelly Nicholas; Servicing Representative: Teresa Wilson Communications Coordinator: Jennifer Tunney; Communications Representatives: Michael Ahn, Gabriel Duenas Political Action & Member Engagement Director: Debora De Angelis Projects Coordinator: Wei Chen
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Community
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Metro members raise money for LLSC through Payroll Deduction Campaign
UFCW LOCALS 175 & 633 MAILING ADDRESS & HEAD OFFICE 2200 Argentia Road, Mississauga ON L5N 2K7 Tel: 905-821-8329
Toll Free: 1-800-565-8329
Fax: 905-821-7144
Email: membership@ufcw175.com
CAMBRIDGE | LEAMINGTON | OTTAWA | SUDBURY | THUNDER BAY ISSN No. 1703-3926 CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW)
UUWO
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President Tosato’s Message
The Local Union's first Member Engagement Conference: A new initiative for 2026 I am excited to announce that this fall, UFCW Locals 175 & 633 will host its first-ever Member Engagement Conference. From September 27 - 29, 2026, about 150 members will take part in this opportunity to help shape the future of your Local Union. Applications to attend the conference will be open in the Spring.
But first, we need a Committee. On the back cover of this issue of Checkout, you will find a link to an application form for the Member Engagement Committee, which will be tasked with developing the upcoming conference. You will also see posters on your Union bulletin board and handouts at the workplace as well. Establishing a Committee of Union members is an important first step and an integral part of putting together a conference intended to build solidarity and inclusion across our membership.
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On this Committee, we want the voices of our members in the room to provide their valuable insight and feedback throughout the process so we can deliver a relevant and engaging experience at the conference. If you are someone who is passionate about building community, has great ideas to share, and wants to see your Union Sisters, Brothers, and Friends empowered and informed – this Committee is the perfect place for you to get involved. Please take a moment to read about the plans for this Committee on the back cover, and if it sounds like something you would like to be part of, apply using the link or QR code before April 15, 2026.
The Union movement is rooted in solidarity and shared purpose: to raise up working people, give them a voice, and fight for their rights.
But while our drive and purpose remains steady, the world continues to change around us. And as we navigate these challenges and changes together across our great Local Union, our priority will always remain providing real and relevant service to our members. Our Local Union has been built on the strength and determination of many who came before us. And it is our responsibility to continue to build on their work to move workers' rights and the labour movement forward one step at a time. I am proud of UFCW Locals' 175 & 633 commitment to our members. I believe that this new initiative – from the Committee to the Conference – is a wonderful way to help unify and build solidarity across our Local Union and will prove to be a great opportunity to connect with our members. In Solidarity, Kelly Tosato president@ufcw175.com
Secretary-Treasurer McLean's Message
Pay Transparency Legislation a Step Forward: True pay equity still needed On January 1, 2026, new pay transparency legislation took effect for publicly advertised job postings. This legislation now forms part of the Ontario Employment Standards Act (ESA) and is a welcome move forward for workers' rights.
Pay secrecy fuels inequality. Transparent wage grids and progression rates are important parts of your collective agreements with UFCW Locals 175 & 633. And those agreements work because they are enforceable; your employers are held accountable. Without transparency and enforcement, employers often make arbitrary decisions on who makes what, play favourites and discriminate against some employees, effectively limiting the income and upward mobility of many workers. Our Organizers see this time and time again when they meet non-Union workers: favouritism and secrecy play a huge role in how far too many employers operate – and working people pay the price.
When you're a member of UFCW Locals 175 & 633, part of the bargaining process is for your Union Negotiating Committee to ensure your employers have justifiable reasons for pay differences. That alone is just one of the many reasons having Union representation is important. We call out discrepancies in wages; we challenge arbitrary raises the employer might try to give some but not others; we make sure employers play by the rules. A UFCW Locals 175 & 633 collective agreement means that there is structure that your employer must follow that ensures:
every bargaining unit member has the same rights and opportunities to get raises, advance, and have fair working conditions.
The Local Union's Pay Equity department delves further into what fairness means with each collective agreement. Because pay transparency and pay equity go hand in hand.
The changes to pay transparency legislation are an important step, but it does not go far enough to address systemic pay inequities that plague the job market. Because, despite all of the gains over the years, the average Ontario woman still makes just 68 cents for every dollar that a man makes. And while women in unionized jobs do fair much better in wages, there is still work to be done. Your Union works hard to ensure that employers meet their legislated pay equity obligations. We do this at the bargaining table and by filing charges when employers fail to hold up their end. To connect with your Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) head to ola.org and tell your MPP you want to see better, enforceable pay equity legislation in this province. In Solidarity, Jim McLean treasurer@ufcw175.com
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STAFF NEWS Happy Retirement In 1978, Dave Forbes started a job at Zehrs that would lead him to a 48-year career advocating for workers’ rights. At Zehrs, Dave was instrumental in getting Union cards signed, which led to those workers joining UFCW Local 1977. At Zehrs, Dave worked with some incredible people as he moved through various roles at several stores. What he loved most was working in his hometown Fergus where he spent most of his life and raised a family. After 33 years at Zehrs, Dave joined the staff at UFCW Local 175 as a Representative, representing members across every sector during his 15 years at the Union. Through taking part in Loblaws bargaining, Dave built life-long connections with Union leaders Brian Williamson, Al McLean, Scott Penner, Barry Sawyer, and Jim McLean. “I consider them to be true leaders. They gave me opportunities, shared their knowledge, supported me, and helped me build confidence as a Representative,” said Dave. “I am forever grateful for their guidance and friendship.” “We are a team at the Union – from President Tosato to the leadership, the Union Reps and all of the staff – we are here to hold employers accountable, maintain the fragile balance between workers and their bosses, and build and maintain fairness and equality every day.” Whether a grievance resolution, arbitration award, a successful return-to-work plan, or bargaining improvements – Dave is grateful for all that the team at the Union has accomplished. “I will miss my co-workers in the region and the whole team – everyone has been supportive,” said Dave. "And I will miss my stewards and the members, and the everyday hustle of the job, Page 6
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too. I enjoyed being able to add some balance and fairness to some very difficult situations.” In retirement, Dave looks forward to refocusing on his family including his Mom and Mother-inLaw, his grandchildren – whose photos Dave has proudly shared with everyone – and his wife and rock of 45 years, Lori. “I have truly appreciated all of my time with the Local. The list of people to thank is too long,” added Dave. “But I am very excited about this next chapter: look out retirement, here I come!” "I know Dave will be missed by the members on his route and the staff across the Union," said President Tosato. "I wish him all the best in his retirement." Shirley Hepditch became a member of UFCW Local 175 in the late 90s, when she was instrumental in organizing the staff at Parkdale Community Health Centre. She went on to be a Union Steward for more than 20 years at Parkdale and sat on the Negotiating Committee, too. At Parkdale, Shirley’s role included important advocacy for her clients, assisting people who faced barriers in accessing care, and providing them with much-needed support. In addition, Shirley has been a longtime champion for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This commitment to justice and fighting for what’s right made Shirley a great fit for the Union, where she brought her advocacy to another level. “I realized from an early age, that Unions were necessary,” said Shirley. “Employees need protection from employers, and I got active with the Union because I could see the good work done here. This Local is passionate about protecting the members.”
At Parkdale, Shirley held many positions, served as an elected UFCW Local 175 Executive Board Vice President for two terms, and retired as a Case Manager for the clinical team, She joined the Union staff as a Representative in August 2022, and, since then, Shirley has been on the UFCW International OUTreach Committee where she continued her advocacy for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Five years later, Sam took on the extra role of Health & Safety Committee Co-Chair and moved to the day shift. It was also the year he married his wife, Sharon.
Shirley is proud of the relationships she has built with members and stewards at the Union. “Helping a member understand the role of the Union and encouraging them to become leaders in the workplace has been rewarding,” said Shirley. “And it’s always a proud moment when you can get someone their job back or resolve other issues for the members.”
After Local 743 merged with Local 175 in 1999, Sam sat as the acclaimed Chairperson at QMP and often assisted the Union as a Special Projects Union Representative (SPUR) until January 2006, when he was hired as a Representative.
“I am grateful for being a UFCW member and I'm sure that being a member saved my job at least once,” said Shirley. “I am thankful I had the opportunity to work for the members for the last few years. I will miss the camaraderie and being a part of something bigger in the fight for fairness.” While she will miss many things about her role at the Union, Shirley is looking forward to resting, taking care of herself, and spending lots of time with her new grandson. "Shirley has been a wonderful addition to the staff and made a great impact on those members she represented," said President Tosato. "Congratulations to Shirley on her retirement."
In 1984, Sam Caetano took a job in shipping at Quality Meat Packers (QMP) in Toronto, where he worked the 11-hour night shift. At the time, the plant employed 1,000 UFCW Local 743 members. After a few months, some members, who felt harassed by the foreman, asked Sam to represent them as a Steward. In January 1985, the president of Local 743 appointed Sam as the Night Shift department Steward.
Sam was acclaimed as Chief Steward at QMP in 1994, and was responsible for managing all issues and grievances in the plant. He was also elected to the Union Negotiating Committee.
For 20 years, Sam served the members as a Representative and then Director. “My goal was always to get employers to follow the collective agreements and do the right thing – to make sure members were paid, had their benefits, and went to work in a safe environment,” said Sam. Among his many career accomplishments, Sam is especially proud of having members jobs reinstated with no loss of seniority or benefits. And one of his biggest battles took him back to QMP in 2014 when the company declared bankruptcy, didn’t pay any severance or termination pay, and reduced the members’ pension as well. Sam saw those members through a seven-year battle that ultimately led to a settlement totalling $6,000,000 paid out to those members. “I am grateful that I got the chance to continue representing those members and help get them what they deserved,” said Sam. Sam thanks everyone he met along the way for their friendship and kindness. He will miss meeting with all of his stewards and members at the Union, and working with the dedicated team of Representatives and staff. After a 42-year career, Sam looks forward to his well-earned retirement. “I want to spend time with family and see our daughters and granddaughter more often, play more hockey, take more trips, and spend time outdoors getting exercise.” "Sam's contributions and dedication to the Union have helped countless members over the years," said President Tosato. "Congratulations Sam, your retirement is well earned." Page 7
STAFF NEWS Welcome New Staff Kirsten Hansen has joined the Local Union as a Representative for our members in the Health, Office, and Professional Employees (HOPE) Community Care sector.
“Being a labour advocate means I get to stand with the people I represent and remind them that there is strength in unity and solidarity,” said Kirsten. “The level of support I feel being new to this role speaks volumes about the type of people that work for Locals 175 & 633, and it makes me proud to include myself among them.”
Advocacy is deeply ingrained into Kirsten, and began many years ago with her community service work. This involvement led to social service work including six years at Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes. In 2024, the employees at Women’s Resources – including Kirsten – took the courageous step to organize. And with their successful campaign, they became part of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 not long after.
"Kirsten's determination was intergral to the successful organizing campaign for the members at her workplace," said President Tosato. "And I know she will apply that same passion to representing even more members now as a Representative with the Union."
Kirsten’s co-workers elected her to their first Union Negotiating Committee. “I was fascinated by the bargaining process and the support that the Union provides to all of its members, regardless of the size of the workplace,” said Kirsten. As a Family Court Support worker, Kirsten has consistently advocated for women’s voices to be heard in the courts. In her role at the Union, she will put her belief that social justice is a right that everyone is entitled to toward representing members of all genders at UFCW Locals 175 & 633. “I get to assist people to affect great change in their workplace which, in turn, can have positive effects in other aspects of their lives.” Kirsten enjoys being able to see the results of the work put in by the members she supports. Whether interpreting a collective agreement, giving members a stronger voice to challenge their employers, or stepping in to help ease a member's anxiety, Kirsten is ready to fight for positive change and to make a difference in the members’ lives.
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With eight years of design experience, and hailing from Tijuana, Mexico, Gabriel Duenas has joined the Local Union's Communications team. Gabriel has a strong background in graphic design anchored in passion, enthusiasm, and a deep sense of empathy. His familiarity with the labour movement started early as his mother was a Union member herself who helped support many workers in their hometown, and was a big supporter of solidarity and workers’ rights. The path from Tijuana to Toronto hasn’t always been smooth, but Gabriel's experience has brought him a solid understanding of what it means to be a worker facing job instability and how having a reliable foundation to build upon is a vital part of every worker’s life. Building relationships and being a voice for the membership is something that inspires Gabriel and he is excited at the opportunity to help
Need to contact your Representative?
workers and take part in the labour movement, while having the support of job security, steady income, and benefits that come from a unionized position. “I want to make sure our members are feeling reassured and being treated properly at work,” said Gabriel. “I want to be able to help them, give them a voice and provide them with the visibility they deserve.” By connecting and listening to the membership, Gabriel aims to elevate our members and working people to help them build a stronger future as part of the labour movement. Off hours, Gabriel can be found exploring the streets of Toronto and taking in the rhythm of the city. Gabriel is a champion of creativity and empathy in everything he does. As a talented musician Gabriel is no stranger to piano and drums, but his favourite way to relax is to head to his local park and decompress with the guitar. "Gabriel's desire to support working people makes him a great addition to our team and I look forward to the ideas and creativity he will bring to the role," said President Tosato.
of venues, helping bring live productions to life. The work was physical and demanding, with long hours and schedules that could change at a moment’s notice. It also required close collaboration, quick problem-solving, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. During this time, Michael developed a strong interest in photography and video which grew into a passion for visual storytelling, giving him a creative eye and a solid technical foundation. He enjoys capturing moments, telling stories through images, and finding ways to communicate clearly and creatively. While Michael valued the energy and teamwork of the entertainment industry, the realities of constant shift work eventually led him to take a step back. He wanted more balance and a role where his skills could have a direct and positive impact on people, which led him toward the Union movement and a career focused on advocacy, support, and communication. As part of the Union’s Communications team, Michael brings a steady and practical approach. He believes in listening first, communicating clearly, and treating everyone with respect, especially when conversations are difficult.
Michael Ahn also joins the Communications team at the Local Union, adding to a career shaped by years of creativity, hands-on experience, and a genuine interest in working with people.
Michael values being part of a team that supports one another and works toward shared goals. With his background in video production and his passion for photography, he is a strong addition to the Communications Department. He takes pride in contributing to an organization that stands up for workers, strengthens collective voices, and promotes fairness in the workplace.
Starting out in Toronto’s downtown entertainment industry as a stagehand, Michael applied his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performance Production to his work behind the scenes at a wide range
"It's clear that Michael has a passion for telling stories and I know he'll put that to good use in building engaging pieces for our members," said President Tosato.
Visit ufcw175.com or call 905-821-8329 / 1-800-565-8329
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Welcome New Members High Tide (Canna Cabana) Waterloo Welcome to the Union’s newest members at Canna Cabana in Waterloo. Retail cannabis workers across Ontario are turning to UFCW Local 175 to unionize as employees push for better working conditions. With the rapid growth of legal cannabis retail, which employs thousands of workers across Canada, it's clear that there are numerous challenges faced by workers in the sector. Despite needing to know regulations and detailed product information, and ensure compliance with strict security and inventory controls, many
UFCW Local 175 gives workers protection from arbitrary treatment and an official process to raise concerns through the grievance procedure without fear of retaliation, and we are proud to provide that protection to retail cannabis workers! Kelly Tosato President, UFCW Local 175
cannabis workers report low wages, inconsistent scheduling, limited benefits, and high turnover. For retail cannabis workers, unionization is about having a say in a fast-growing industry and shaping a future where workers’ rights grow alongside corporate profits. By joining UFCW Local 175, cannabis workers are uniting and standing strong to make sure their employers know that their jobs are skilled, essential, and deserving of respect.
Political Action Canadian Health Coalition lobby for pubic healthcare Across the country, Canada's public healthcare is under attack. Our healthcare system, while not perfect, is one that is universally accessible and doesn't require people to go into bankruptcy to meet their basic healthcare needs. In fact, public healthcare was created to prevent unnecessary hardship and financial burden on people. But in provinces like Alberta and Ontario, there is a significant push from the provincial governments to underfund the public systems, create a two-tiered system, and shift services to private for-profit clinics which then charge patients money for their services - which is against the Canada Health Act.
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On February 10, 2026, UFCW Locals 175 & 633 joined activists at Parliament Hill in Ottawa for a lobby day and rally to demand that the federal government uphold the Canada Health Act before it's too late. Learn more at healthcoalition.ca.
Political Action
International Women's Day March 8, 2026 Every year on March 8, the world celebrates International Women's Day. This year, the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Women's Committee and 50 years of Women Powering Work! As of September 2023, 9.6 million women aged 15+ were employed in Canada, making up 47% of the total workforce in the country. At UFCW Locals 175 & 633, women make up more than 50% of our membership.
"As a Union and as advocates for workers' rights, we will continue to lobby for expanded pay transparency and pay equity legislation to ensure that no workers get left behind," said President Tosato. Globally, this year's global theme was #GiveToGain, which aims to build a community of generosity and collaboration around the world that can uplift all women by creating opportunities and providing support.
Equal Pay Day April 14, 2026 On April 14, 2026, Ontario marks Equal Pay Day. This day symbolizes how far into the next year the average woman must work in order to have earned what the average man had earned in the previous year. While the gender pay gap has narrowed over the last several decades, women still – on average – make less then men. In Ontario, the average woman faces a 32% pay gap. But if you’re a woman with disabilities, or a woman who is also an immigrant, Indigenous, or racialized, that gap is much wider. Too often, this gap results in precarious economic insecurity for women in those demographics. The Equal Pay Coalition is made up of more than 40 organizations including UFCW Locals 175 & 633. Since 1976, the Coalition has been advocating for women’s pay equity in Ontario and this year marks 50 years of fighting for Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value. All year long, your Union's Pay Equity department is working alongside your Union Representatives to ensure pay equity discussions are happening at the bargaining table whenever necessary, and following up with employers who do not comply with the province's legislation.
#IWD2026 #GiveToGain #OnPoli #CdnPoli Page 11
Outstandin Mohit Hitendra Bisht 8 Food Basics 638
Rafael Bori 8 Jollibee
Contributions to the Community
Leadership & Advancement of UFCW
Mohit is very involved in volunteering and community service. With his commitment to giving back and supporting others, Mohit is known for being a positive force across the Sudbury area.
Rafael is known for his outstanding dedication, initiative, and unwavering support for his co-workers at Jollibee. As Chief Steward, Rafael has been instrumental in organizing and successfully bringing UFCW Local 175 to the Jollibee workplace, making it the first and only unionized location of the franchise in Canada.
Mohit takes part in numerous events and charitable initiatives: from the Northern Lights Festival Boreal to the Multicultural Festival, and numerous activities organized by the Laurentian University International Office, as well as supporting the local hospital and the Sudbury Food Bank. Mohit supports and engages with people from diverse backgrounds and, by doing so, contributes to building a welcoming community for all. At work, Mohit is always looking for ways to assist customers with bagging groceries and providing friendly, reliable service. Currently, Mohit is working on an IT project for a non-profit organization, using his skills to help the organization strengthen its operations and serve the community better. Page 12 Checkout Spring 2026
Rafael fosters a workplace culture with a strong sense of community that reflects the true spirit of union solidarity. He actively promotes the union’s resources, including the webCampus and scholarship opportunities, and ensures members are informed and empowered to take advantage of what the Local Union has to offer. In bargaining, Rafael has served on two negotiating committees, and as the members at Jollibee prepare for the next round of bargaining, Rafael has stepped up again, and is encouraging members to get involved and have their voices heard to help achieve the strongest possible contract.
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Member Achievement Award Winners 2025 For more information visit ufcw175.com/memberawards.
Brenda Deer 8 Metro 026
Leonor Sena
8 Maple Lodge Farms
Fundraising for the LLSC
Improving Workplace H&S or Workers’ Comp
Brenda is a Union Steward and long-time supporter of fundraising events for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). This dedication to the LLSC led Brenda to become a canvasser for the Metro Payroll Deduction Campaign; a role she has taken on with passion for the last five years.
Leonor is a dedicated and long-standing Union member at Maple Lodge Farms, where she has worked since 1988. For more than 20 years, Leonor has been an active member of the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC). Her deep commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy workplace makes her a respected advocate and trusted resource for her co-workers.
For the past two years, Brenda has been the Campaign coordinator, overseeing a number of stores and working hard to encourage other members to get active in the Campaign. From delivering kits and meeting with canvassers at other stores, to answering questions and training others, Brenda's enthusiasm for giving back makes her a great source of inspiration. Brenda also takes active community involvement outside the workplace. For 10 years, she has organized and taken part in events to raise money for the Kidney Foundation – a cause that is also close to Brenda's heart.
To stay up to date, Leonor takes part in training opportunities about health and safety standards, best practices, and regulations. And she makes sure to share her knowledge and experience with her colleagues, which has helped foster a strong safety culture at Maple Lodge Farms. Leonor is a compassionate supporter of injured workers as well. Her guidance, empathy, and advocacy helps those workers navigate their recovery and make her a true leader in workplace health and safety. Page 13
Negotiation Updates Women’s Resources members win wage increase, language gains and the benefits of unionization with first collective agreement Local 175 HOPE Community Health sector members working at Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes have ratified their first collective agreement. Members receive retroactive lump-sum payments in year one of $600 to each full and part-time employee, and $100 to each Relief employee. In years two and three, members will see raises of 2% across all classifications. Employees who work a minimum of 21 hours per week will receive both health and welfare and dental benefit coverage. An RRSP was also secured for workers. The Union Negotiating Committee also secured: •
Improved bereavement leave for both full and part-time employees.
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Three paid sick days.
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Nine paid personal leave days.
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Mileage language.
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Leave of absence language.
These members now have the protection of a strong collective agreement that includes a grievance and arbitration procedure, scheduling and posting language, a labour management committee, and union security including just cause protection. Union Negotiating Committee: Bozena Hall, Shelly Houston, Denise McCue, Debra Walsh, Servicing Representative Kirsten Hansen, Union Representative Maxine Prince, and Director Mike Mattioli.
Members at Fin Aire ratify significant wage gains & more In January, the membership at Fin Aire in Belleville ratified a new agreement with wage protection language, significant wage increases, and other improvements. Wages for the members at all rates and progressions will increase in each year of the contract as follows: •
Year 1 – 4%
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Year 2 – 3.5%
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Year 3 – 3.5%
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Year 4 – 3%
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Additionally, on January 20 of each year of the agreement term, should the Canadian Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the previous calendar year be greater than 4%, the above rates will be adjusted to whichever is greater. Members will also benefit from an 11% increase to their safety boot and clothing allowance. Union Negotiating Committee: Darryl Strachan and Union Representative Sean Carroll.
Members at Sobeys in Toronto secure first CBA and many improvements as Local 633 members New members at Sobeys in Toronto ratified a first collective agreement that secures wage increases, language improvements, and the many benefits of belonging to our Local Union.
Members secured a signing bonus paid at $400 for full-time, $200 for part-time averaging 24 hours, and $75 for part-time averaging 16 hours.
The deal, which members ratified unanimously on January 22, 2026, has a two-year term and includes the following wage improvements: •
Part-time members at end rate receive wage increases of $0.50 per hour.
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Part-time on the wage grid receive increases ranging from $0.50 to $1.75 per hour.
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Full-time end rate increases by $0.50 at ratification, retroactive to October 1, 2024.
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Full-time receive another increase of $0.50 increase on January 22, 2027, retroactive to October 1, 2025, to equal a $1 increase to end rate.
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Workers will participate in an employer pension plan, and will be provided with a medical/dental/ vision plan with a shared contribution cost.
Employees who are appointed to act as Meat or Seafood Manager will receive a $1 per hour premium.
Prior to ratification, both full and part-time workers were paid minimum wage, only receiving increases when the province made changes to minimum wage. With this first Union collective agreement, the members on the grid received increases of $0.50 to $1.75 per hour.
On the second anniversary of the ratification, members will receive additional lump sum payments of $300 for full-time, $150 for part-time averaging 24 hours, and $50 for part-time averaging 16 hours.
The Union Negotiating Committee also successfully bargained to have the Civic holiday included in the list of stat holidays for all employees. There will be a shoe allowance of $75 every 12 months for full-time, and part-time workers will receive $55 every 24 months. Members also achieved improved vacation entitlement and sick days, and successfully had the premiums for overtime reduced from 44 hours to 40 hours in a week. Union Negotiating Committee: Maximilian Dzialek, Davion Wright, and Union Representative Mario Tardelli.
Find more bargaining updates at
UFCW175.COM
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Negotiation Updates
More than 6,000 Metro members across the province secure precedent-setting agreement; vote 82% in favour On November 30, 2025, members from Metro stores covered by a province-wide agreement ratified a new precedent-setting collective agreement that includes substantial monetary improvements.
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Main Body & Appendix A Department Heads in Grocery, Produce, Deli, and Meat, and Head Cashiers at or above end rate will see increases totaling $4.95 per hour over the life of the agreement.
This set of negotiations saw the parties meet in conciliation over wages, benefits, and language. Members at Metro stores under this agreement are covered in two segments: the Main Body and Appendix A. With some exceptions, which are noted in the schedules in the full agreement details, increases will apply as follows:
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Main Body and Appendix A full-time Meat Cutters at end rate receive a total of $4.60 over the term.
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Main Body and Appendix A full-time Pharmacy Assistants are on new scales: ○ Main Body full-time Pharmacy Assistants on the progression grid will see increases between $1.65 and $3.10 per hour.
Full-Time •
Full-time at end rate or above under both the Main and Appendix A segments receive increases totaling $4.60 per hour over term.
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In addition to the end rate increases, Main Body and Appendix A Department Heads in Seafood, Bake-Off, Dairy, and Floral at or above end rates receive lump sums of $350 in November 2027, and November 2028.
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○ Main Body and Appendix A full-time Pharmacy Assistants at end rate will receive a total of $5.60 per hour over the term. Part-Time •
Main Body part-time employees on a Minimum Wage plus $2.25 scale receive lump sums in years two through five of the agreement term.
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Appendix A part-time employees at end rate receive rate increases totaling $3.70 per hour over the term of the agreement.
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Main Body and Appendix A part-time Meat Cutters at end rate will see increases totalling $4.60 per hour over the life of the agreement.
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Main Body & Appendix A part-time Pharmacy Assistants are on new scales: ○ Main Body part-time Pharmacy Assistants on the progression grid will see increases between $1 and $1.50 per hour. ○ Main Body part-time Pharmacy Assistants at end rate receive increases totaling $3.20 per hour over the term. ○ Appendix A part-time Pharmacy Assistants receive rate increases totaling $4.70 per hour over the agreement term.
Further improvements: All employees who are active on the payroll as of the date of ratification will receive lump sum signing bonuses of $1,500 for full-time, $1,000 for part-time who are at or above end rate, and $500 for all other part-time. Premiums improve across a number of classifications, and a new Relief premium of $50 per week will now apply to part-time employees at top rate who are assigned duties of Department Head or Assistant Department Head.
Health and welfare improvements provide enhanced combined benefit optical coverage of up to $400 per two-year period for both full and part-time employees. Members will also benefit from increases to coverage for physiotherapy, orthotics, and chiropractic services. Further improvements provide full and part-time eligible workers with an increased protective footwear allowance of $150, up from $125, and enhanced bereavement entitlement of five days, up from three, for the death of an immediate family member. Full-time employees covered by the main body of the agreement now receive five paid sick days, up from four. Approximately 1,500 full-time and 4,500 part-time employees at 54 Metro stores across the province are covered by this collective agreement. Union Negotiating Committee: •
Members Jim Fulco (#245), Agron Klecka (#245), Susan Madden (#245), Tony Morello (#178), Brian Oles, (#424), Mary-Jo Ricci (#84), Janet Sauson (#119), Rick Szyja (#422), Richard Von Friedl (#495), and Kimberly Watson (#424)
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Local 633 President Brian Kozlowski (#424)
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Servicing Representatives Wyllan Dick, Art Gier, and Patrick Griggs
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Union Representative Jennifer Hanley
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Directors Matt Davenport and John DiNardo
YouTube
Make sure you are following your Union on social! Page 17
Negotiation Updates Ratified agreement at Amcor Packaging brings wage increases & more Members at Amcor Packaging Canada, Inc. in Mississauga ratified a new three-year collective agreement on January 16, 2026. Wages increase in year one by between $1.05 and $3.25 per hour, in year two by 2.3%, and in year three by another 2.3%. Members also benefit from improvements to shift premiums, which increase by 25 cents per hour. Other improvements for Amcor members include a $25 increase to the allowances for safety shoes and safety glasses, an extra 15-minute break for 8- and 12-hour shifts, and extra time off for Union business for the Chief Steward and Steward(s). The Union Negotiating Committee achieved a reimbursement of $200 per calendar year for gym membership or personal fitness equipment, which was an important win for these members. The Committee also secured important language for the membership regarding curtailment and, as such, the employer will not send personnel home or delay an incoming shift. Personnel will
be offered any other work that is available within the plant, and employees must be willing to perform available job duties assigned. Union Negotiating Committee: Balwinder Ghuman, Ranjit Kaur Singh, Mahmoud Mohamed, and Union Representative Navidad Talbot.
Members at Wiigwaas ratify monetary improvements & more Members at Wiigwas Elder and Senior Care in Kenora have ratified a three-year collective agreement with yearly wage increases, pension and benefit improvements, and language gains Wages increase by 3.5% in year one, 3% in year two, and another 3% in year three. Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) receive a special wage adjustment of $5 per hour as of January 1, 2026. In addition, premiums for evening and night shift will increase from $0.50 to $0.75 per hour. Pension and benefit improvements will have the members enrolling in the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP), and the dental contribution rate will increase to $0.42 in 2027. Page 18 Checkout Spring 2026
Members benefit from an increased uniform allowance of $200 per year. The employer will reimburse members $75 - $100 for the cost of a safe food handling course, and a paid day to attend the course. Great grandparent and great grandchild are now on the list of immediate family for purposes of bereavement. The requirement to attend the funeral in order to be eligible for paid leave has been eliminated. Union Negotiating Committee: Rowena Pangilinan, Ryan Santiago, Cecillia Switzer, and Union Representative Alex Stubbs.
Members at Ingersoll and London Cargill plants ratify yearly increases, benefit improvements, and more Industrial food members working at the Cargill London and Ingersoll facilities ratified a five-year agreement in late 2025. Wages for the members increase by $1 per hour in year one, and $0.50 per hour in each of the remaining years of the agreement term. The Food Safety Quality & Regulatory (FSQR) Department employees receive an additional $0.50 per hour, and the Distribution Department an extra $0.25 per hour. Members will also receive a signing bonus of $1,000. The dental benefit improves to $2,000 per year per family member, up from $1,500, and the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) coverage has changed to the current year fee schedule.
ployer cannot schedule break times less than 1.75 hours prior to the start of a shift. Representation for the negotiating committee now includes the membership at the Ingersoll facility. In addition, members at the Ingersoll facility are now entitled to the enhanced severance package, which is a significant achievement for these workers. Union Negotiating Committee: Aaron Broughton, Al Couture, David Hales, Marc Larmour, Rey Panth, Bill Pinnell, Mike Rapson, Eleanor Steffen, Jenny Tandas, and Union Representatives Navidad Talbot and Fred Teeple.
Members benefit from an improved safety footwear allowance of $200, up from $160, and increased physiotherapy and massage coverage to $200 each per year. Plus, vision care now covers $150, up from $75, toward eye exams every 24 months. Bereavement language now includes step-fathers/mothers-in-law, and step-grandfathers/ grandmothers-in-law as well. Union members sought, and succeeded in achieving, language that ensures that the em-
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Health & Safety Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) RSI – or Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) – is an umbrella term for injuries caused by repetitive motion or constant use. RSIs can affect your musculature, joints, and tendons, and generally develop over time. The slow onset can make RSIs difficult to diagnose, and may cause damage that is irreversible and/or irreparable.
Common Symptoms • • • • • • •
Pain Swelling Tingling Numbness Decreased ability to use muscle Aching Pale, white skin
RSI Hazards • • • •
Awkward posture Speed Vibration Workstation design
Common Injuries • • • • • •
Tendonitis Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Trigger Finger Degenerative Disc Disease Pinched Nerve Ganglion Cyst
• • • •
Manual material handling Tools Cold environment Extended reach
Strategies for Change • • •
Develop a sub-committee of the Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC). Assess each workstation and redesign as needed. Educate and train workers on new set up and practices.
Remember:
Ergonomic Changes •
Reduce workers’ reach.
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Proper standing surfaces such as anti-fatigue mats.
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Instrument displays at eye level.
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Only ergonomic chairs or sit/stands.
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Workstations designed for the tallest workers with stands to accommodate all heights.
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Proper tools and equipment for tasks kept in good repair.
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Have adjustable heights on conveyor systems.
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Take worker input into consideration.
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• Report all workplace injuries immediately. • Tell your doctor if your symptoms/injury could be work related. • WSIB forms must be filled out for your injury to proceed as a compensation claim. • Keep copies of all documents and correspondence relating to your injury.
ufcw175.com/workplacesafety
Workers' Compensation More than $630,000 won back for members injured at work The UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Workers' Compensation Representatives take on hundreds of appeals cases for our Union members every year. In 2025, the Department was able to recoup $639,790 in compensation benefits for our members injured at work. Our expert staff help members file their appeals, do intensive research on injuries and illnesses, correspond with medical professionals, stay in touch with members and the WSIB, make submissions, and see our members through hearings and tribunals – all to ensure our members have the best chance at getting the compensation benefits they deserve. If you have been injured or suffer an illness as a result of work, make sure you file a WSIB claim. For more information, speak to your Union Rep, or contact workerscomp@ufcw175.com.
WSIB Winter Rally
UPCOMING ACTIONS! Day of Mourning April 28, 2026
Injured Workers' Day June 1, 2026 Details on these days of action will be posted as they become available at ufcw175.com/workerscomp
On December 8, Workers' Compensation Department Representatives joined other unions and advocates at the 34th Annual Winter Rally in Toronto, while a second rally took place simultaneously in Thunder Bay. This year's rally raised awareness about the challenges that injured workers face and the need for fair treatment and support. Injured workers and community groups are calling for: •
Fair compensation.
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An end to deeming and claim suppression.
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WSIB benefits past age 65.
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Justice and status for migrant workers.
In November, our Local Union staff also took part in a Rights Don't Retire lobby day at Queen’s Park to meet with politicians to discuss much-needed changes to the WSIA, which currently ends loss of earnings for injured workers at age 65. Workers that are injured at age 63 or older, only receive LOE benefits for two years. Together, we’re committed to ensuring dignity and security for all workers.
ufcw175.com/workerscomp
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Training & Education Three members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 took home a $1,000 UFCW National Council Beggs-Dowling-Mathieu (BDM) Scholarship
Alex Katona (right) from Rexall with Rep Jennifer Hanley
Aidan Harrison (right) from Metro with Rep Wyllan Dick
Racquel Ferreira (left) from Fortinos with Rep Sharon Jones
Congratulations to Alex, Aidan, and Racquel who each won one of the 18 post-secondary scholarships available through the UFCW Canada National Council BDM Scholarship program. Visit ufcw175.com/scholarships to learn more about the post-secondary scholarships you can apply for as a Member, or the child of a Member, of UFCW Locals 175 & 633!
Watch for the 2026 UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Solidarity Scholarship applications to open soon! You could win one of 104 scholarships available this year.
Do you know about the UFCW Canada webCampus? ufcw.ca/webcampus
Choose from 200+ courses – for free! Gain new skills on UFCW Canada’s webCampus. Courses cover a wide variety of topics and are all free to UFCW members!
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Community Members at Metro raise $32,000 for LLSC through annual Payroll Deduction Campaign Each year, members at Metro and the Barn Market stores across the province take part in a payroll deduction fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). This annual campaign brings in much-needed funding to support the LLSC, and the continued generous contributions of our members are instrumental in helping the LLSC advance research in blood cancer and extend vital support, care, and resources to patients and families.
In 2025, Metro members generously signed up to donate a total of $32,303! Congratulations to the members in the stores below who raised the most money in each of their categories. •
Barn #139 in Windsor
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Metro #178 in Collingwood
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Metro #46 in Mississauga
At each of the above stores, raffles took place for numerous prizes for members who signed up to donate. Some of our winners are pictured here on this page. A huge thank-you to all members who participated in this year’s fundraising campaign. Together, we are making significant strides in extending and improving the lives of blood cancer patients. In December 2025, UFCW Canada celebrated 40 years of partnership with the LLSC. The amazing and generous members of UFCW Canada Local Unions nation-wide, have gone out of their way and reached deep into their pockets to help raise more than $54 million since 1985! Our members not only donate, but many organize and run fundraisers every year! We publish photos and info on these events to the site as well as all the other amazing ways our Union Members give back to their communities! For more information on the LLSC and their life-saving work, visit bloodcancers.ca.
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Member Engagement Committee CALL FOR APPLICATIONS! UFCW Locals 175 & 633 is excited for a new initiative: a Member Engagement Committee to foster a more connected Union community. This Committee will be tasked with developing our first-ever Member Engagement Conference in the fall of 2026. 9
Are you passionate about building strong relationships within your Union?
9
Do you have ideas about how to foster unity and solidarity across the Union?
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Do you enjoy volunteering and encouraging others to do the same?
This is a great opportunity to add your voice and expertise to a cause that matters, and promote and support a positive, active volunteer community. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empowered environment for our members. Current UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members who are not a Union Steward or Health & Safety Rep in the workplace are invited to apply.
MYUNION.CA
Return postage will be paid by: United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 & 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga ON L5N 2K7
Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671
Does this sound like something you would like to be a part of? Apply now @ ufcw175.com/engage Applications close April 15, 2026 Questions? Email engage@ufcw175.com.
HAVE YOU MOVED?
Notify the Union Office at membership@ufcw175.com or call 1-800-565-8329