Canada Post Rotating Strikes and Holiday Delivery Challenges
Canada Post workers represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) are conducting rotating strikes as the holiday delivery season nears. This labor action threatens to disrupt shipments for businesses relying on the carrier during a critical period.
Background of the Labor Disputes
Last holiday season, a national strike by Canada Post employees halted operations amid stalled contract negotiations, causing significant delivery delays. The labor conflict has persisted into 2025, with intermittent overtime bans, halted delivery of unaddressed direct mail, and nationwide strikes.
Current Strike Status and Impact
- In October, CUPW shifted from a full strike to rotating work stoppages, affecting mail and parcel pick-up and delivery in targeted areas.
- As of early November, rotating strikes are active in London and Cobourg, Ontario, with eighteen other locations previously impacted.
- Unaddressed advertising mail is currently not being processed or delivered in much of Ontario and Quebec, with some exceptions.
"Once the strike is over in a given location, the delivery of mail and parcels will restart as quickly as possible once operations resume," said Canada Post.
CUPW National President Jan Simpson stated Monday that employees are not handling unaddressed advertising mail in Ontario and Quebec regions, except for certain areas.
Advice for Businesses and Shippers
Experts recommend businesses using Canada Post prioritize clear communication with customers and secure multiple delivery options to mitigate delays during this unsettled period.
Author's summary: Ongoing rotating strikes by Canada Post workers during the holiday season call for shippers to enhance customer communication and diversify delivery methods to avoid disruption risks.