Canada's largest private sector union Unifor has filed an application with the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB), initiating steps to unionise workers at a Walmart warehouse in Mississauga.

The unionisation efforts at Walmart's facility began in December 2023, reflecting a broader movement among warehouse workers to unionise, as with Amazon workers in Metro Vancouver in 2024.  

The vote at Amazon is pending due to legal challenges and alleged delaying tactics by the company. 

Unifor national president Lana Payne said: "Workers at Walmart deserve greater job security, health and safety protections, and fair wages. Today is an important step towards these goals." 

Following the application's processing by the OLRB, the board will decide whether a vote is necessary.  

If Unifor's submitted membership cards represent at least 40% of the eligible workforce, a vote will be scheduled within five business days.  

Unifor Ontario regional director Samia Hashi said: "Despite employer intimidation and top-down opposition, workers at Walmart have shown that they are ready to have the protection offered by a democratic union. Unions are good for workers, and Walmart is no different." 

Unifor represents 315,000 workers across various sectors of the economy and is known for advocating workers' rights, equality and social justice both within Canada and internationally.  

The push for unionisation at the Walmart warehouse is part of its ongoing efforts to improve conditions for workers nationwide. 

In August 2024, Canada-based grocery store chain Metro reached a new tentative agreement with Unifor for the renewal of the collective agreement with unionised employees.