With the mediator in attendance, we returned to the table with UFCW 401 this week to continue talks towards a fair, market-competitive deal.

The union requested the mediator to “write out” which ends the formal mediation process and triggers the mandatory 14-day cooling-off period. The union has advised that a strike vote will occur in the second week of September. If there’s a successful strike vote, the union could legally begin a strike with 72 hours’ notice.

We’ve heard from many of you that you don’t want a strike, and neither do we. This is why it’s so important that you attend union meetings, ask questions, and participate in the strike vote to ensure your voice is heard.

While we’re preparing for all scenarios, we still believe that our outstanding issues can be worked through at the table. We’re committed to working with UFCW 401 and your bargaining committee in September to reach an agreement that supports you and Safeway’s long-term future in Alberta. We encourage you to speak with your union representative and ask that they work with us on getting to a deal.

We’ll share details about the strike vote soon as we’re committed to keeping you informed throughout this process.