On July 18, over 50 workers from the Gay-Lea Food Cooperative in the city of Brampton in Ontario, Canada, joined UFCW Locals 175 and 633. Gay-Lea Food Cooperative produces dairy products, including butter, sour cream, cottage cheese, whipped cream, and lactose free milk for retail, food service, industrial and export markets.
Workers at the Gay-Lea Food Cooperative in Brampton work in a tough environment servicing the dairy industry and overseeing the distribution of products. They work in shipping and receiving, delivery, and dock coordination. These workers joined our union due to the unfair treatment they received from management, including inconsistent and long-lasting disciplinary measures, benefit discrepancies and increased costs, and a lack of fair and equitable representation.
The workers were happy with the results of their vote and are ready to be represented by UFCW Locals 175 and 633. They look forward to having a strong union to back them up and make their voices heard in their workplace.
“Belonging to UFCW Locals 175 and 633 is more than just membership,” said President of UFCW Local 175 Kelly Tosato. “This local union is about a commitment to solidarity, mutual support, and collective strength. As new members, these workers now have a powerful voice in advocating for better working conditions, fair wages, and the respect they deserve. Together, we can achieve meaningful changes that will benefit these workers now and in the future.”