Kamloops' Hudson's Bay workers' strike ends after 165 days

It’s been 165 days since unionized workers at the Kamloops Hudson’s Bay walked off the job and a new collective agreement has been reached.

On May 23, members of the United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 1-417 announced that they had achieved a “significant victory”.

“This milestone was made possible by the unwavering solidarity of striking USW 1-417 members and the steadfast leadership of key individuals,” said Marty Gibbons, USW Local 1-417 President, in a news release.

“It has been a privilege to stand alongside these courageous members in their fight to better their working lives.”

According to the release, the union has secured improvements to contract language, protections for union positions, wage hikes and lump-sum payments.

Hudson’s Bay has pledged substantial financial assistance for members choosing not to return to the store following the strike, the release says.

“As with any collective agreement, compromises were made, with neither the USW nor Hudson’s Bay achieving their desired outcomes,” said Jordan Lawrence, USW Local 1-417 Financial Secretary.

“However, we have secured an agreement that allows our members to return to work with dignity, knowing that our struggle has paved the way for a better workplace – now and in the future.”

The end of the strike, which began on Dec. 10, came after months of campaigning.

In late April, the union escalated their efforts and a national campaign was launched, targeting shoppers during Bay Days.

Shortly after that, a mediator was assigned in early May.

“We thank special mediator David Schaub for his assistance in achieving a resolution in a timely manner,” said Scott Lunny, USW Director for Western Canada.

“We are deeply proud and thankful of the support shown by the residents of Kamloops, and we look forward to welcoming you back to the store in the coming days.”

The Hudson’s Bay in Kamloops has been unionized since 1993 and the USW represents 225,000 members across Canada