With Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) negotiating, businesses across the country are urging both parties to reach an agreement to avoid a postal strike. The latest offer includes a four-year, 11.5 per cent wage increase and preserves existing defined-benefit pensions, job security, and health benefits. CUPW members on the other hand have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike, as early as Sunday, November 3. This comes ahead of the busy holiday season, creating a massive backlog of deliveries.
“A postal strike will create serious disruptions for businesses, particularly small businesses, and their customers that rely on consistent mail and parcel services, from retail operations to essential document deliveries,” said Jasroop Gosal, Interim Spokesperson for the Surrey Board of Trade. “Our members need confidence that goods and communications will reach their clients and customers without interruption. We strongly encourage Canada Post and CUPW to work collaboratively to secure an agreement that supports postal services continuity.”
Mail and parcel delays can impact various sectors, including e-commerce, logistics, and essential goods providers, straining business-to-consumer and business-to-business connections. In the face of mounting challenges in supply chains and the high demand for reliable postal services, businesses emphasize the importance of a stable solution that minimizes disruption risks.
The Surrey Board of Trade is optimistic that both parties will prioritize an outcome that protects the interests of the postal workforce while ensuring that businesses across Canada can continue their operations without costly interruptions.
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Jasroop Gosal, 604-634-0345, jasroop@businessinsurrey.com
