At Frulact in Kingston, 1006A steward Michelle Wilson has seen how unionization can transform a workplace for the better.
“Before UFCW came, we had issues with scheduling and work/life balance wasn’t good and since the union came in, we have been able to work that out,” she said. “Without the union, we didn’t know that we could have a say in our workplace and now having the UFCW means we can have a voice and choice in different things at work. We don’t have as many issues with management that we used to have.”
Workers at Frulact, which processes and distributes fruit for dairy-based products, unionized in summer 2020 and negotiated a first contract the next year.
“It was very difficult when we didn’t have a union because it felt like no matter what we did, it didn’t matter and a lot of people felt they were getting taken advantage of,” she said. “When we didn’t have the union, we didn’t know who to talk to and who could answer the questions and now with the union, we know where to turn to and we have someone who can give us a voice.”
Michelle said she felt more protected having the union in her workplace.
“I am proud to be a UFCW 1006A member,” Michelle said. “When I think of UFCW, I think of family, pride and community.”
As a union steward, Michelle continues to empower members to understand the union is a resource which is available to help and support them.
“The union has made a big difference in our workplace – Thank you UFCW,” Michelle said.
