C/O IAM Union
March 18, 2026 – Richmond, British Columbia:
102 members working at Wexxar Bel in Richmond, British Columbia, established picket lines, marking a significant escalation in their ongoing labour dispute with the Company. The action reflects growing frustration among workers who say their concerns have been consistently dismissed and their proposals ignored at the bargaining table.
At the heart of the dispute is the lack of engagement at the bargaining table. Members are calling for progress on four key priorities: seniority language, job descriptions and postings, protection of benefits, and fair wage increases.
One of the most contentious issues is the application of seniority, particularly in the context of layoffs. The IAM has proposed language aimed at clarifying and strengthening how seniority is applied to protect workers. However, the Company has refused to engage on this proposal, instead suggesting that any concerns be addressed through the grievance process under the current agreement. For members, this response is unacceptable, as they argue that clear and enforceable language is essential to ensure fairness and transparency, especially during layoffs, where livelihoods are directly impacted.
Tensions have also risen following changes to employee benefits. The Company recently switched benefits providers without notifying the Union and has declined to share details of the changes. This lack of transparency has raised serious concerns among workers. In response, the IAM is pushing for contractual guarantees that any future changes to benefits providers will not result in reduced coverage. Members emphasize that benefits are a critical part of their compensation and should not be altered without accountability or protection.
Another major concern relates to job descriptions and internal hiring practices. According to the Union, the Company has been tailoring job postings to favor specific individuals, undermining fair access for other qualified employees. Members report that job posting language is often adjusted in ways that limit opportunities for more senior workers, effectively bypassing established principles of fairness. The Union is seeking stronger language to ensure that all qualified employees have a fair chance to apply and be considered based on merit and seniority.
Wages remain a key sticking point in negotiations. The Union states that the increases proposed by the Company fall well below industry standards and recent agreements across British Columbia. For workers, this raises concerns about keeping up with the rising cost of living and maintaining competitive compensation within the sector.
As picket lines remain in place, members are united in their demand for the Company to return to the table with a willingness to engage constructively. The message from the line is clear: workers are seeking fairness, transparency, and respect in their workplace.
For further information, contact Andrew Tricker, Business Representative for District 250, at atricker@iam250.org.
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