In a significant turn of events, an indefinite strike commenced at Metro’s fruit and vegetable distribution center in Laval at 9 a.m. on March 30, 2026. This strike involves 550 workers, including drivers from the Mérite 1 warehouse in Rivière-des-Prairies, and is poised to disrupt the supply chain for approximately 1,000 Metro group stores throughout Quebec.

Prior to this strike, expectations were that negotiations would yield a resolution, especially as the contract expired in 2025 and discussions had been ongoing for months. However, the decisive moment came when the union, representing the workers, adopted a mandate for an unlimited general strike, with an overwhelming 97% of its members in favor.

The union’s demands are substantial, seeking a 20% raise in the first year of a new contract, followed by two additional 5% raises in subsequent years. Currently, workers at the fruit and vegetable warehouse can earn a maximum wage of $33.71 per hour, and they argue that these raises are necessary to regain purchasing power lost to inflation.

In response to the strike, Metro has secured alternative fruit and vegetable supplies to mitigate the impact on its operations. However, the situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of labor negotiations.

Matthieu Lafontaine, a representative from the union, emphasized the urgency of their demands, stating, “We want to regain the purchasing power loss we experienced these last years with inflation.” In contrast, Marie-Claude Bacon, a spokesperson for Metro, criticized the union’s salary demands as “completely unreasonable,” while also assuring customers that the company would work hard to limit the strike’s impact.

The current strike’s duration is indefinite, depending on how the situation evolves. As both parties prepare for a protracted negotiation process, the stakes are high for the workers, the company, and the consumers who rely on Metro’s supply chain.

Сообщение Metro Workers Strike in Laval, Quebec появились сначала на justrealnews.