Workers at Amazon’s Delta facility have successfully gained union representation after the B.C. Labour Relations Board ruled in favour of certification, marking a significant victory for organized labour against one of the world’s largest employers, according to a press release issued by Unifor.
The Labour Relations Board concluded that Amazon’s interference during the union drive was severe enough to undermine the certification process and agreed that awarding union status was the only reasonable remedy for the company’s actions, it said.
The certification allows about 300 warehouse workers to begin negotiating their first collective bargaining agreement with Unifor, Canada’s largest private-sector union.
“Workers at Amazon organized against very difficult odds, but they’ve slayed the giant,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “This ruling sends a clear message to companies that bullying workers will only backfire in the end.”
The decision represents a breakthrough for union organizing efforts at Amazon facilities, which have faced significant corporate resistance in Canada and internationally. The company has previously contested unionization attempts through various legal and administrative channels.
Broader implications for warehouse workers
Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle emphasized the importance of union representation for warehouse employees across the sector.
“Warehouse workers are better off with a union,” said McGarrigle. “Unifor will continue to provide support to workers at Amazon facilities across the country to improve working conditions and win fair pay.”
Part of larger organizing campaign
The Delta victory forms part of Unifor’s Warehouse Workers Unite campaign, which has also supported unionization efforts at multiple Walmart facilities across Canada. The campaign targets major retailers and logistics companies where workers often face challenging working conditions and limited job security.
The certification comes amid growing labour organizing activity in Canada’s warehouse and logistics sector, as workers seek better wages, improved working conditions, and stronger workplace protections.
Next steps for newly certified workers
The newly certified workers will now begin the collective bargaining process to negotiate their first contract with Amazon. Issues likely to be addressed include wages, benefits, workplace safety protocols, and scheduling practices.
Unifor represents 320,000 workers across Canada in various industries including automotive, transportation, retail, and logistics. The union has been actively working to organize workers in the growing e-commerce and warehouse sectors.
