Over 140 Surrey hotel workers strike at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford after failed contract talks, demanding better wages and respect on the job.
Strike Begins Following Contract Rejection
More than 140 workers at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel in Surrey walked off the job Saturday evening, marking the start of a legal strike after over a year of unresolved bargaining. Represented by Unifor Local 3000, employees voted to reject a tentative agreement and initiated strike action at 5:30 p.m. on July 5.
Workers Call for Wage Increases Amid Rising Costs
The union says workers, who’ve been without a contract since April 2024, are demanding fair wages to keep pace with the escalating cost of living in the Lower Mainland. In a public statement, Unifor National President Lana Payne emphasized the economic pressures facing members, stating, “These workers kept the doors open during some of the most challenging years in hospitality. Now, they’re standing together to demand fairness, respect, and economic justice.”
A Wide Range of Roles Impacted
Unifor Local 3000 represents 120 full-time and 24 part-time employees at the hotel, including front desk staff, banquet servers, room attendants, kitchen workers, and maintenance personnel. The strike has the potential to significantly disrupt operations at one of Surrey’s prominent hospitality venues.
Union Expresses Frustration, Vows to Continue
Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle voiced solidarity with the striking members, stating, “They’re done waiting for a fair deal. They’re taking a stand not just for themselves, but for all hospitality workers who deserve better pay and respect on the job.”
Talks Still Possible, But No End in Sight
While the union affirms it remains open to productive negotiations, it has also made clear that the strike will persist until a satisfactory offer is presented. No new bargaining dates have been confirmed as of Sunday.
Not the First Strike at This Location
This is not the first labour disruption at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford. Unionized employees also took strike action at the hotel in May 2018 under similar circumstances. With a growing push across B.C. for better conditions in the hospitality sector, the outcome of this dispute may have broader implications.
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