The union said in a statement issued today, Thursday, that more than 1,200 Unifor members working in No Frills stores owned by Loblaw may go on strike starting Monday.

“Loblaw must come to the table prepared to raise wages, improve working conditions, and create more full-time job opportunities for these grocery store workers. They deserve decent work and pay." Lana Payne, national president of Unifor, said in the statement: “It’s that simple.” "Loblaw reports higher profits every financial quarter than the previous one. It is time for the workers who help them earn these profits to get a share so they can support their families."

According to Unifor, the company refuses to address wage demands and working conditions amid the affordability crisis in Canada.

Unifor recently ratified a new collective agreement with Metro workers, ending a five-week strike that began in July. The union said the agreement included an immediate $1.50 per hour increase, enhanced benefits and pensions, a better schedule, and job protection from self-serve rollouts. This agreement is similar to what the No Frills workers are demanding.

"Loblaw workers are fed up with the out-of-control disparity between their wages, the company’s huge profits, and the rising cost of living," said Gord Corey, president of Unifor Local 414, in the statement: “Workers are ready to take necessary actions to support themselves and their families during these difficult times.”

Also in its statement, Unifor highlighted that Loblaws recorded profits of $621 million in the third quarter – an increase of nearly 12 percent from the last quarter.

Payne continued: "While Loblaw continues to make huge profits, many Canadians, including its workers, are increasingly using food banks."

Grocery chains have also found themselves under fire with sharply rising food prices and living costs over the past year or so. The industry has claimed its profit margins are actually slim, but the federal government has asked grocery retailers to do more to ensure food remains affordable.