In Laval, Quebec, the situation at Metro’s fruit and vegetable distribution centre has taken a significant turn. As of 9 a.m. on March 30, 2026, an indefinite strike commenced, involving 550 workers, including drivers from the Mérite 1 warehouse in Rivière-des-Prairies. This distribution centre is crucial, supplying approximately 1,000 Metro group stores throughout Quebec.
Prior to this development, expectations were that negotiations would lead to a swift resolution, especially given that the contract had expired in 2025 and discussions had been ongoing for months. However, the decisive moment came when the union, representing these workers, adopted a mandate for an unlimited general strike with an overwhelming 97% approval from its members.
The workers are advocating for a 20% raise in the first year of a new contract, followed by two additional 5% raises in the subsequent years. Matthieu Lafontaine, a representative from the union, expressed the urgency of their demands, stating, “We want to regain the purchasing power loss we experienced these last years with inflation.” This sentiment reflects the growing concern among workers about the impact of rising living costs.
In contrast, Metro’s management, represented by Marie-Claude Bacon, has labeled the union’s salary demands as “completely unreasonable.” She emphasized the company’s commitment to minimizing the strike’s impact on customers, stating, “We will work very hard so that the impact is as limited as possible for our customers.” Despite these assurances, the strike’s indefinite nature raises concerns about potential disruptions to the supply chain.
While Metro has secured alternative sources for fruit and vegetable supplies during the strike, the long-term effects on both the workers and the company remain to be seen. The situation is fluid, and details remain unconfirmed as negotiations continue.
