Local News
Sobeys Rocky View Distribution Centre workers may strike Thursday after lockout notice
Warehouse, distribution and transportation workers at Sobeys Rocky View Distribution Centre near Balzac may strike as of 3:01 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, Teamsters Local Union 987 said Wednesday. The union, which represents some 251 individuals employed at the facility, said it issued a 72-hour strike notice on Monday after the employer issued a lockout notice. The distribution hub is formally known as Sobeys Capital Inc. Rocky View Retail Support Centre. Related Stories: Strike or lockout notice could take place for Sobeys Rocky View distribution centre employees Teamsters 987 said strike action could disrupt the delivery of goods to major grocery stores, convenience stores and independent grocers throughout central and southern Alberta. The union said its members voted down an offer that was first presented to them on August 11 and then voted against that same offer during a board-supervised re-vote a few weeks later. It said the members voted 92 per cent in favour of strike action on Tuesday, September 9. According to Teamsters 987, members are seeking more competitive wages along with the resolution of non-monetary amendments to the collective agreement. “We have been working tirelessly on behalf of our members, many of whom have been working at below industry standard wages for more than nine years,” said Brock Penner, business agent, Teamsters Local Union 987. “We had to issue a strike notice to protect our members and their families. They are looking for a fair industry standard agreement from their employer that recognizes the hard work and commitment they show their employer day in and day out.” Teamsters 987 said it would like to see “a positive outcome for their members and a suitable resolution with the employer.” Teamsters Local Union 987 of Alberta said it “is a family of more than 5,000 workers strong from over 13 industries and 40 collective agreements." Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon. Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@discoverairdrie.com. You can also message and follow us on Twitter: @AIR1061FM. DiscoverAirdrie encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the DiscoverAirdrie app.