The Canadian Federation of Independent Business is warning that another postal strike could severely damage small businesses already struggling with economic uncertainty.
Last year’s postal strike cost small companies over $1 billion in lost revenue and sales, according to CFIB. The organization notes that 79 per cent of small business owners rely on Canada Post services to conduct business.
“We cannot afford another threat to our economic stability, and we can’t keep finding ourselves back in the same spot with an unreliable supply chain and an important service again not being available to small firms,” said Dan Kelly, president of CFIB.
The warning comes as Canada Post and its union are in negotiations, with potential strike action possible in the coming weeks if no agreement is reached.
Economic pressures mounting
The CFIB emphasized that small businesses are currently facing “massive uncertainty” due to trade tensions with the United States and China, with small business confidence in the economy at “a near historic low.”
The federation is urging both Canada Post and the union to resolve their differences without disrupting operations. If negotiations fail, the CFIB called on the government to use legislative authority to maintain postal operations.
Long-term solutions needed
Kelly also pointed to the need for fundamental changes to Canada Post’s operations, stating that “Canada Post needs major reforms to its business model, and we need to find better ways to resolve major labour disputes.”
The organization indicated it’s awaiting recommendations from the Industrial Inquiry Commission’s report on the issue.
The CFIB represents 100,000 members across various industries and regions throughout Canada.
