A Food Basics store is set to replace a Metro grocery store in Ottawa’s South Keys neighborhood this autumn, leading to job losses for several employees. Metro Inc. stated that the decision to convert the store was made to better align with the area’s market demands. The closure announcement came as a surprise to workers at the Southgate location, with long-time employees like Justin Braganza expressing shock at the news.
Braganza, who has been with the store for over 30 years and also serves as a volunteer steward with the United Food and Commercial Workers union, recounted being informed of the closure due to financial pressures, including increased rent and profitability concerns. Despite queries about rent influencing the decision, Metro reiterated that the change was driven by local factors and customer requirements.
The transition affects 72 employees at the Southgate Metro, with no option for them to transfer to other Metro stores as per their collective agreement. Interested employees can apply for positions at the new Food Basics store where a minimum of 10 part-time and five full-time roles are reserved for former Southgate Metro employees who apply. However, the different wage structures between Metro and Food Basics pose challenges for some employees like Braganza, who may not have a suitable role at the new store.
Customers, such as Michael Vorobej, expressed disappointment over the situation, citing concerns about the treatment of long-serving staff. The United Food and Commercial Workers union negotiated enhanced options for affected workers, including job opportunities at the new store and enhanced severance benefits.
Legal experts reviewed the collective agreement and raised questions about the company’s claim of a work shortage, potentially leading to grievances from the union. Despite challenges, settlements between the union and the employer could offer resolution, albeit with confidentiality clauses. Braganza emphasized the emotional impact on employees, highlighting the sense of loss and uncertainty faced by the close-knit work community.