SURREY, BC, July 5, 2025 – Over 140 employees at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford hotel initiated strike action today, citing an inability to achieve an equitable collective bargaining agreement with their management.
Unifor National President Lana Payne stated, “Our members merit more and are striving to improve their economic standing.” She added, “These employees maintained operations during some of the hospitality sector’s most difficult periods. Now, they are united in seeking improved compensation amidst the rapidly escalating cost of living in the Lower Mainland. This industrial action addresses issues of equity, dignity, and financial parity.”
Members of Unifor Local 3000 at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford have been operating without a contract since April 2024. Following over a year of negotiations, the employees chose to reject a proposed agreement and commenced lawful strike action at 5:30 p.m. Pacific on July 5, 2025.
Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle asserted, “This hotel operates thanks to our members—and they are no longer willing to wait for a just settlement.” He emphasized, “They are taking this stance not solely for their own benefit, but for all hospitality staff who are entitled to better remuneration and workplace respect.”
Pacific Reach Properties, a Vancouver-based investment company with interests spanning real estate, hospitality, healthcare, and technology, owns the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford.
The company delegates its labor discussions to Hospitality Industrial Relations (HIR), an external entity that conducts negotiations for hotel operators throughout the province.
Adrian Burnett, President of Unifor Local 3000, commented, “Compensation at this hotel has stagnated, even as rental costs, food prices, and fuel expenses have dramatically increased.” He continued, “Our members are struggling financially while a prosperous ownership entity seeks to minimize their earnings. This strike directly stems from that disparity.”
Unifor Local 3000 represents a total of 120 full-time and 24 part-time employees at the hotel, encompassing roles such as room attendants, front desk personnel, banquet servers, kitchen staff, and maintenance technicians.
The union indicates its willingness to engage in constructive discussions but cautions that the strike will persist until an equitable agreement is presented.
Unifor stands as Canada’s largest private-sector union, representing 320,000 individuals across all primary economic sectors. The organization champions the rights of all working individuals, advocates for equality and social justice both within Canada and internationally, and endeavors to foster progressive transformations for an improved future.
SOURCE Unifor