Kraus & Strudex closure puts 190 Unionized employees out of work

For Immediate Release: September 11, 2018

Waterloo, ON –The United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 175 has been notified by the management of Kraus Carpets and Strudex Fibres that it will cease operations permanently at its manufacturing facilities in Waterloo, where the union represents 190 of the employees.

“Our members at both Kraus and Strudex are loyal and hardworking, and they have gone over and above for this employer,” said Shawn Haggerty, President of UFCW Local 175. “That includes making sacrifices to their compensation package six years ago in order to keep the operation going. This news is devastating to the workers and the whole community.”

Additionally, the employer informed the Union that it has sought protections under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA).

“The collective agreements for these Unionized workers contain robust enhanced severance provisions,” added Haggerty. “We expect the employer to fulfill their obligations to its employees.”

The union will take all possible steps, including legal action, to enforce the collective agreement and provide as much benefit to the affected union members as possible.

** Members should contact the Union’s Hamilton office or your Union Representative with any questions. **
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Media Inquiries:
Tim Deelstra
Engagement & Media Relations Strategist

UFCW Locals 175 & 633

media@ufcw175.com

(226) 750-4366 Cell
(800) 565-8329 Office