Workers Vote to Strike at Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan-Owned Wine Rack Stores
Posted on 05/14/2021
On May 10, 2021, 86% of workers at Wine Rack voted in support of a strike action. The workers are members of SEIU Local 2 union. The union say key issues include low wages, basic job security, and fairness are all key issues. Wine Rack is owned by Arterra Wines Canada, Inc., a holding company owned by Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan. Constellation Brands Canada was subsequently renamed Arterra Wines Canada and was acquired by the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan in 2016.
According to a press release by the union on May 11, 2021, “The workers say they are being asked to accept terms that would not address a severe problem with their hours and job security. Current wages and working conditions have resulted in a stunning annual employee turnover rate of 50%. Workers are seeking a deal which will give them the ability to work sufficient hours at a fair wage. Wine Rack has so far