Unifor members ratify new five-year deal at Loblaws Ajax distribution centre

Unifor Local 222 members at the Loblaws Distribution Centre in Ajax have voted 91 per cent in favour of a new five-year collective agreement that delivers wage increases, stronger benefits and improved premiums and bonuses.

“This contract represents a major win for our members who keep the supply chain moving every single day,” said Jeff Gray, president of Unifor Local 222. “The bargaining committee worked tirelessly to achieve real improvements to wages and working conditions in a time when affordability is top of mind for every worker. I’m proud of the solidarity our members showed throughout this process.”

The agreement provides a $7-per-hour wage increase over the term, with $2 upon ratification and another $1 in February, giving members a $3 boost within the first five months. It also introduces a $2-per-hour freezer premium and higher afternoon and night shift premiums.

Full-time and part-time workers will receive a signing bonus of $2,000 for those with four or more years of seniority, and $1,000 for those with less than four years.

“These improvements are the result of tough, determined bargaining by a committee that never lost sight of what members wanted most, fair pay and respect on the job,” said bargaining chair Kyle Coughlan. “We went into negotiations focused on ensuring the dedication and work of our members is fairly recognized, and we achieved that.”

Employees with 15 or more years of service will now have their top-tier benefit plan fully paid by the employer, eliminating previous monthly costs of $50 for single coverage and $100 for family coverage.

The clerical progression scale has been reduced from five years to four, and the agreement includes 15 Voluntary Termination and Early Retirement Packages each year valued at up to $83,000.

“These are strong, fair gains that respect the hard work and dedication of Local 222 members,” Gray said. “The bargaining committee brought forward practical, member-driven solutions that make a real difference.”