A grocery store in Ottawa’s South Keys community is undergoing a transformation from Metro to Food Basics this autumn, leading to job losses for numerous employees. Metro Inc. stated that the decision to convert the store was made to better cater to the area’s customer demands. The change was attributed to local market conditions and consumer preferences, according to a company spokesperson.
The announcement came as a surprise to employees at the Southgate Metro location. Justin Braganza, a long-time meat cutter at the store, expressed shock at the news. Informed of the closure in May due to financial pressures, employees were told that the store was not profitable enough to sustain the Metro model. Consequently, all staff members were informed of their termination.
Although Metro cited local market conditions for the switch, some employees were caught off guard by the abrupt change. The company mentioned that under the terms of the collective agreement, affected workers do not have the option to transfer to other Metro stores. Instead, they are encouraged to apply for positions at the new Food Basics store.
The collective agreement for the new Food Basics store mandates the hiring of a minimum number of former Southgate Metro employees who apply for positions at the new establishment. However, the different wage structures between Metro and Food Basics may pose challenges for some employees. Braganza expressed concerns about his future job prospects as Food Basics does not employ meat cutters, leaving him uncertain about his employment status.
The United Food and Commercial Workers union negotiated severance benefits and job opportunities for its members affected by the closure. Although the union has refrained from commenting publicly, it confirmed advocating for its members’ rights during negotiations with Metro. Legal experts have raised questions about the company’s claim of a work shortage and the potential for legal challenges from the union.
Employees like Braganza are left feeling marginalized with limited options. The closure signifies the end of a close-knit work “family,” leaving employees to navigate uncertain job prospects and part ways.