Union disputes DHL’s claims amid ongoing labour disruption

The union representing DHL Express Canada workers is pushing back against the company’s narrative that the current labour disruption is a “union shutdown,” asserting instead that the company initiated the lockout.

“This situation began with a company-initiated lockout. Management made the decision to lock out workers and shut down operations,” Unifor said in a statement. “Only after that did the union announce strike action in response.”

The union alleges DHL had hired replacement workers—commonly referred to as scabs—days before the lockout deadline, signaling that it had no intention of reaching a deal. When federal anti-scab legislation prevented the use of those workers, the union says, the company shifted tactics and began attacking the union publicly.

“DHL walked away and locked the doors,” the statement said. “Now they want to cry foul about the consequences of their own decisions.”

The union also accused DHL of attempting to sidestep the bargaining process by pressuring workers directly, describing the company’s recent messaging as “corporate bullying.”

In addition to wage disputes, the union is calling for job protections related to automation, fair compensation across provinces and equitable treatment of owner operators who, it says, face unequal impacts under DHL’s proposed new payment model. It also disputes the company’s claim that no drivers are being forced to travel more than 100 kilometres daily, citing ongoing arbitrations involving commutes of up to 280 km round trip.

As of now, no new bargaining dates have been announced.