As they brace for the closure of two popular Zellers store locations next week, longtime Zellers workers say their new potential employer is forcing them to reapply for jobs they’ve had for decades.
American-based retailer Target is converting several existing Zellers locations in Calgary, with stores at Chinook Centre and Market Mall already closed and under reconstruction.
Protests will be held at Zellers locations in Forest Lawn and Signal Hill on Saturday, with closure of those stores set for Monday.
The union representing Zellers workers says Target has told staff, many with more than 30 years of experience, that they will have to reapply for their same jobs, in the same locations.
No specifics have been provided for starting pay and benefits, but workers fear that because Target is a non-unionized shop, salary and benefits will have lower standards.
“Our workers are devastated. They have committed their entire lives to one company and then, bang, suddenly it means nothing,” said Doug O’Halloran, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 401.
Lisa Gibson, spokeswoman for Target Canada, said Target will provide former employees with initial interviews, but that no one’s job is guaranteed.
“We are a completely different brand, and we are looking for people who fit into our Target brand.
“Our goal is to make sure we have the best team in place, and in order to do that we need flexibility.”
But O’Halloran says Target is refusing to respect the loyalty, experience and labour rights of Zellers workers.
“Alberta needs good retail jobs to strengthen our communities and to create more fairness for working families,” said O’Halloran.
“By refusing to respect the rights of Zellers workers, Target is telling Alberta that it’s not interested in being a positive force for our province and the future of our economy.
“We need to send a strong message to Target and that starts with taking a stand, and that is why we are calling on all our friends and neighbours to join us at the protests on Saturday.”
Saturday’s protests will occur simultaneously at noon at the Signal Hill Zellers, at 5696 Richmond Road S.W., and the Forest Lawn Zellers, at 5115 17th Ave. S.E.
The remaining Zellers stores in Calgary — in Sunridge and Shawnessy — will be closed within the next few months.
The United Food and Commercial Workers Union is Alberta’s largest private-sector union and leading retail workers’ organization.
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