Karma Candy members ratify wage gains and more
August 20, 2026
On August 8, 2026, the members of UFCW Local 175 at Karma Candy in Hamilton ratified a new collective agreement that includes wage gains and more.
Wage improvements were a key part of this round of bargaining for the members at Karma Candy. The Union Negotiating Committee worked hard to secure solid compensation improvements they could bring back to the membership.
The ratified agreement includes across-the-board increases of $1.15 per hour in year one, $0.75 per hour in year two, and $0.60 per hour in year three. Employees classified as Maintenance will see an additional adjustment of $1 per hour. And members will see improvements to all shift premiums, as well.
Members also benefit from an improved Safety Shoe allowance of $175, up from $135.
In addition, employees will be entitled to more paid bereavement leave – now five days instead of four – for the death of a spouse/partner, child, parent, or legal guardian.
The employer will contribute $1,500 per year, up from the previous $1,000, toward the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education Fund.
Union Negotiating Committee: Mariana Fernandes, Louise Ranger, Iain Wilson, and Union Representative Navidad Talbot.
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