B.C. Coke workers strike in Lower Mainland

Workers at Coke Canada facilities in B.C., including in Richmond, Coquitlam, and Chilliwack, are on strike.

Members of Teamsters Local 213 have walked off the job, citing wage concerns.

“Our members are just saying that they should be investing in them as well, no different than any other capital project. All we’re doing is asking for Coke to give a little bit more so the members can retain a fair living to support their families,” explained Jim Loyst with the union.

“We had 22 days of negotiations and then two days of mediation. Unfortunately, we had to take strike action. But the group’s together and strong and we’re standing together as one.”

However, the company claims they’re asking for more than “what is offered in the industry.”

Coke Canada tells CityNews it has offered wage increases.

“After weeks of negotiations and several mediation sessions, we are disappointed that the union representing employees at our Lower Mainland facilities (Nelson Road Distribution Centre, Coquitlam Distribution Centre, Richmond manufacturing facility and Chilliwack Distribution Centre) has chosen to stop negotiating and go on strike,” a statement from the company reads.

Coke Canada calls the situation “unnecessary and unfortunate,” adding in addition to wage increases, it has also offered “new training and apprenticeship programs and more opportunities for overtime among other improvements.”

Meanwhile, Loyst says the union is open to resuming talks.

“What we hope is to continue and to get back to the bargaining table, but at the same time, seek a fair and balanced deal that recognizes the workers’ efforts over the last two years … so they can sustain a fair and balanced living,” he said.

The company says it has contingency plans in place to be able to run its operations and serve customers.

During a 2017 labour dispute, there were shortages of drinks in some local stores, but Coke says customers are currently getting pop from plants in other parts of the country.

The company says Coca-Cola bottling operations in this country began in 1906. Coke Canada adds it took over franchise operations north of the 49th parallel through a joint venture between its owners in 2018.