From Unifor:

VANCOUVER—Unifor Local 2000’s bargaining committee has secured a tentative agreement with Purdy’s Chocolatier during negotiations that went down to the deadline set by the union.

“I’m proud of the solidarity and the work done by Local 2000 members to reach a tentative deal that advances their goals,” said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director.

The union delivered 72-hour strike notice to Purdy’s on September 8, 2022 after lack of progress at the bargaining table. Tonight’s tentative agreement will be voted on in the coming days. Details of the contract will be available to the public following ratification.

“Congratulations to the bargaining committee for their hard work today and for getting us to a tentative agreement,” said Brian Gibson, Local 2000 president.

Local 2000 represents more than 200 factory and warehouse workers in Vancouver. Purdy’s Chocolatier Vancouver operations include a factory on Kingsway and a warehouse on Chester Street, which supply chocolate for retail stores across Canada.

Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

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Earlier story:

Sept. 11, 2022

VANCOUVER—Members of Unifor Local 2000 working at Purdy’s Chocolatier could be on strike at midnight if the employer refuses to make a fair wage offer during negotiations today.

“Unifor members have helped make Purdy’s a household name in British Columbia,” said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director. “Workers at Purdy’s deserve a fair contract that protects their wages from inflation during uncertain economic times.”

The union delivered 72-hour strike notice to Purdy’s on September 8, 2022 after lack of progress at the bargaining table. Unifor and the employer are scheduled to meet today in hopes of securing a deal before the deadline.

“We’re prepared to negotiate until the deadline to get a fair contract and avoid a disruption for customers,” said Brian Gibson, President of Local 2000. “Purdy’s management have shown little interest in finding a fair solution.”

Local 2000 represents more than 200 factory and warehouse workers in Vancouver. Key demands during this round of negotiations include better wages and seniority protections. Purdy’s Chocolatier Vancouver operations include a factory on Kingsway and a warehouse on Chester Street, which supply chocolate for retail stores across Canada.

Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

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