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WOODSTOCK, ONT.— Penske Logistics workers, represented by Unifor Local 4268 in Woodstock, have ratified a new three-year agreement by 72%.
“Congratulations to the bargaining committee for negotiating a strong collective agreement for Penske Logistics members,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
The gains in the new contract include significant wage increases of 22.75% over the life of the deal, increases in shift premiums, boot and clothing allowances, as well as improved bereavement language.
Members will get 25-minute paid lunches for all shifts, and 10-minute paid rest periods twice during their shifts. A new Racial Justice Advocate was included in this collective agreement.
A major issue for this unit was workplace culture and labour relations. This new agreement contains a commitment from Penske management to facilitate local level meetings with higher levels of management to understand employee concerns, a review of all workplace harassment and bullying policies, and training.
Penske Logistics also committed to having locally elected representatives review the grievance process, ensuring grievances are resolved as early as possible, and work to develop other processes that will ensure the collective agreement is being followed.
The bargaining committee negotiated improved language to solidify that, in the event the employer hires temporary agency workers going forward, they will not be provided any greater benefits or entitlements as those in the bargaining unit, and their rate of pay must be in accordance with the collective agreement.
The 220 full-time members in this unit work as forklift drivers.
“Our members are pleased that this contract addresses the wage issue they were concerned with,” said Unifor Local 4268 President Debbie Montgomery.
“These members work in an extremely fast-paced, time-sensitive, high-volume cross-dock facility providing just-in-time support for Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada. We’re proud we were able to achieve fair wage increases that respect the hard work they do every day.”
Unifor is Canada’s largest union in the private sector, representing 320,000 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.
For media inquiries or to arrange interviews, please contact Unifor Communications Representative Jenny Yuen at @email or by cell at (416) 938-6157.
