Selkirk Marketplace workers say Yes! to UFCW Local 832
Workers at Selkirk Marketplace are the newest members of UFCW Local 832 after voting to join the union on October 25th. The Manitoba Labour Board conducted the certification vote after more than 40 per cent of employees signed union cards.
Prior to certification, the Selkirk Marketplace was the last non-unionized grocery store in the City of Selkirk, which is located about thirty minutes north of Winnipeg. The newly-welcomed 832 members work in grocery, produce, cash, and receiving, among other jobs.
UFCW Local 832 President Jeff Traeger says seniority was the main issue that emerged during the organizing campaign, as junior employees were obtaining more hours than their senior counterparts. Wages were also low and inconsistent.
“We look forward to working hard for these members," says President Traeger. "They’ve joined the right union for retail workers."
A proposal meeting will be held in the near future so that the 49 members can discuss what they would like to see in their first collective agreement.