Unifor issued a press release stating that its 461 members who work as machine operators, packers, shippers, receivers, general laborers and skilled trades at the Nestlé Toronto plant have chosen to go on strike Sunday evening.
The factory produces Kit Kat, Aero and Coffee Crisp candy bars, as well as Smarties.
“In the past, Nestlé workers have struck over pension contributions and, once again, that is at the heart of this dispute,” said Lana Payne, Unifor National President.
“Retirement security is very important to our members. Add to that an affordability crisis and it’s no wonder our members are determined to fight,” she added.
In addition to rejecting the changes requested by Unifor, the union maintains that Nestlé had also proposed a two-year freeze on cost-of-living indexation.
It indicates that no negotiation date is currently planned.
“As one of the world’s largest food and drink manufacturers, the company has a responsibility to ensure workers can earn a decent income in these difficult economic times,” said Eamonn Clarke, President of Unifor Local 252.
“Our union will stand with our members as they continue to fight for a fair deal that shows them the respect they deserve.”
Nestlé Canada has not yet responded to an interview request from The Canadian Press.
Unifor is Canada’s largest private sector union, representing 315,000 workers in every major sector of the economy.
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