Fairlife ratifies new deal and avoids labour dispute

The members at Fairlife in Peterborough ratified a four-year agreement on October 6, 2022.

Increases include a General Wage increase: Year 1 – $1.20, Year 2 – $.50, Year 3 – $.50 and Year 4 – $.80.   The lead hand premium will increase to $1.00.

Significant benefit improvements include:

• Introduction of a Pay Direct Drug Card.
• Increase in physiotherapy coverage from $500 to $1000.
• Psychology services increased from $500 to $1500.
• Introduction of a core plan, enhanced plan and an opt-out option for those who want to reduce or drop their benefits.
• Life insurance increased from $40,000 to $70,000.
• LTD cap increased from $2000 to $4000.
• Parental leave added to Maternity leave with the top up to apply.

Language improvements include:

• Mandatory overtime will be almost entirely eliminated with a defined schedule in the CBA that cannot be changed without the Unions consent.
• Maintenance increase for tool allowance from $300 to $325.
• Education/tuition reimbursement increase from $200 to $400.
• NEW – Fridge wear allowance of $100.
• Boot allowance increase from $180 to $200 and additional purchase order for departments with fast breakdown, upon inspection by Company.
• Layoffs to be done by plant seniority with a 20-day training period to be given to employees for said layoffs.
• Introduction of Labour Management Meetings to improve communication.

Union negotiating committee: Jennifer Derochie, Paul Handy. Union representative: Sacha Edey, Director Region 2: Lee Johnson-Koehn.

See more negotiation updates from the industrial food sector, including beverage production.

Read features of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members at work.

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