Approximately 40 Unifor Local 195 members at the Best Western Plus Windsor Waterfront Hotel walked off the job early June 1, launching a strike over wage demands and opposition to proposed concessions. A spokesperson for the hotel says the offer is competitive.
The striking workers, who are employed in guest services, housekeeping and maintenance, began picketing outside the downtown hotel shortly after midnight. The job action follows a breakdown in contract negotiations between the union and the hotel’s management company.
Unifor says members are seeking wage increases and the removal of employer proposals it characterizes as rollbacks to existing employment terms. The union frames the strike as part of a broader push to secure improved compensation and working conditions in the hospitality sector.
In response, Ironwood Management Corp., which manages the property on behalf of owner FHC Hotels & Resorts Inc., issues a statement expressing disappointment with the strike and defending the company’s bargaining position.
“FHC Hotels & Resorts Inc., owner of the Best Western Plus Windsor, is disappointed by the strike action initiated by Unifor, particularly given our continued efforts to reach a fair and reasonable agreement through good-faith bargaining,” says Ironwood CEO Tyler McDiarmid.
The company says it has increased wages over the past three years despite rising costs tied to property taxes, utilities, insurance and interest rates. It cites broader economic pressures, including recession concerns, as part of its operating context.
“Despite these challenges, we remain committed to providing our employees with competitive compensation and stable, long-term employment,” the statement says.
The employer also states its offer would provide the “best overall compensation of any private-sector hotel in the region.” According to the company, Unifor has declined to pursue mediation or arbitration through the Ministry of Labour.
The hotel, located at 277 Riverside Dr. W. along the city’s waterfront, is independently owned and operated under the Best Western brand.
Unifor Local 195 represents workers in various sectors across southwestern Ontario and has been active in advocating for wage increases in hospitality and related industries. The strike comes as the hospitality sector enters the busy summer travel period.
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