Earlier today, Maple Leaf Foods announced a $80 / week premium. This pay increase is coming after discussions with the Union and is in line with what employers in retail are starting to do.
“Workers at Maple Leaf and other food production facilities are on the frontlines,” said Jeff Traeger, President of UFCW Local 832. “We are glad to see employers recognizing the stress that members are facing.”
Maple Leaf is also increasing measures to ensure safety at their facilities. This includes not allowing visitors to the facility, adjusting break times and providing additional space to improve physical distancing, as well as increasing the frequency of sanitation in common areas of the plants.
“We are continuing to work with management to ensure the safety of our members,” said Traeger. “We are pleased to see the new premiums and the safety measures taken so far across retail and now at Maple Leaf.”
UFCW 832 continues to call on all employers to recognize and compensate the hard work that frontline workers are doing, to provide pay protection for those who are being laid off, and to make sure safety is ensured for all workers.
UFCW Local 832 represents over 18,000 members working in food production, food distribution warehousing, grocery retail, hospitality, security, personal care, and assisted living.