THE WHAT?  The Sephora store in Kamloops, the only unionised Sephora in North America, is negotiating with UFCW Local 1518 over worker conditions. Discussions have been ongoing for over a year.

THE DETAILS  The store’s employees are seeking significant wage increases and other improvements, including more flexible scheduling, health benefits, and bonuses. UFCW 1518 notes that despite LVMH, the parent company of Sephora, generating substantial revenue, it has not agreed to wage hikes for these employees. The union previously succeeded in reversing a company policy that required employees to remain unpaid for up to 30 minutes after their shifts.

THE WHY? The union aims to secure better compensation and working conditions for the Kamloops Sephora employees, reflecting their contribution to the company’s success. The employees, supported by UFCW 1518, are prepared to consider a strike to achieve their goals. This situation is part of a larger significant movement for improved labour conditions in the retail industry, as evidenced by recent actions by other unionised workers.