Canada Post workers are set to go on strike shortly after midnight, with thousands of employees preparing to walk off the job. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), which has about 55,000 members, states that the latest wage increase offer from the postal service falls short.
"We’re not satisfied with what they’ve offered," said a union representative. "We’re going to be on strike as of midnight tonight."
Wage Negotiations
The CUPW has been in talks with Canada Post for months regarding wages and working conditions. The union is seeking a wage increase that exceeds the 2% offered by Canada Post.
Impact on Small Businesses
Concerns from Local Business Owners
Erin Primrose, manager of Thelma & Thistle in Lethbridge, Alberta, is anxious about the impending strike. She has been preparing to send out shipments using alternative delivery services.
"I’m worried about how this will affect my business," she said. "I’ve already started looking into other options for getting packages delivered."
Canada Post has reported a decline in mail volumes and is urging for an urgent resolution.
"We urge both parties to come together quickly and find a solution that works for everyone," said a spokesperson for Canada Post.
The company aims to avoid disruptions that could impact thousands of Canadians who rely on postal services for their daily needs. Small businesses like Primrose’s are bracing for potential losses due to delayed or undelivered packages.
"It’s not just about us – it’s about our customers too," she said. "They rely on us being able to get their packages delivered quickly and efficiently."
Alternative Delivery Options
As the strike deadline approaches, many small businesses are scrambling to prepare alternative plans in case deliveries are disrupted.
In Vancouver, local business owner Sarah Thompson is struggling to find ways to deliver her products without relying on Canada Post. Thompson, who sells handmade candles made from beeswax sourced from local beekeepers, expressed her concerns.
“I’m really worried,” Thompson said outside her store. “I rely heavily on shipping through Canada Post’s parcel service because it’s more affordable than other options.”
Thompson has tried using private courier companies but found them too expensive. She is now considering alternatives such as UPS or FedEx, although those companies have limited capacity during peak season.
“Right now I have no idea how I’m going to make this work,” Thompson said, shaking her head in frustration. “It’s just another thing we don’t need.”
Broader Implications
David Gauthier, a business owner with several commercial properties across Metro Vancouver, is also preparing for potential disruptions. He estimates that hundreds, if not thousands, of small businesses could be affected by any delivery service disruptions.
“Small businesses can’t afford delays,” Gauthier warned. “If you’re running late, you lose customers.”
Gauthier also expressed concerns over potential health risks associated with increased congestion around courier offices during peak season. He noted that some couriers may drive faster or take shortcuts, which can endanger lives, especially in congested areas during rush hour.
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