Winnipeg Small Businesses Deliver Amid Canada Post Strike

As the Canada Post strike continues, many businesses in Winnipeg are stepping in to ensure their customers receive their orders on time. Some owners are personally delivering packages door-to-door to maintain service levels and customer satisfaction.

Sage Garden Greenhouses Takes Action

One such business, Sage Garden Greenhouses, has seen a decline in sales during this critical holiday period. Dave Hanson, the founder of the greenhouses, reported that deliveries usually handled by Canada Post are now being done manually. This month alone, he has hand-delivered around 30 Christmas packages throughout the city, a significant decrease from the typical nearly 100 packages he expects to send out.

Hanson admits that personal delivery is not the most cost-effective solution for his business, saying, "It's a double-edged sword. It’s a joy to deliver personally, but it's also a costly endeavor that takes time away from running the business." Despite the challenges, it remains one of the few options to ensure timely delivery.

Bear Face General Store Adapts

Similarly, Bear Face General Store, located on Osborne Street, has begun offering local deliveries. Co-owner Eric Hetherington mentioned that although most of their sales occur in-store, they are making local deliveries for larger orders and allowing customers to pick up their packages directly from the store. He emphasized the importance of supporting the Canada Post workers, as their situation is far more pressing than the inconveniences faced by his business.

Impact of the Strike on Local Economy

With the postal strike affecting over 55,000 workers, many businesses in Winnipeg are feeling the strain. The situation is affecting more than just delivery services; the uncertainty is causing customers to hesitate before completing their purchases. The founder of Sage Garden Greenhouses noted a 70% drop in revenue during a peak sales time, which has serious implications for small business owners.

Government Response

In response to the ongoing labor dispute, Canada’s Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has referred the matter to the Canada Industrial Relations Board. This board has the authority to intervene if negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers reach an impasse. MacKinnon has stressed that this action aims to protect the interests of all Canadians, stating, "It is not a decision I take lightly, but in this situation, it’s the right one."

Loren Remillard, president of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, voiced concerns about the long-term relationships businesses have with Canada Post, pointing out that a prolonged strike can lead to a loss of trust.

As holiday shopping season continues, local businesses are finding innovative ways to adapt and meet customer needs while waiting for the labor dispute to be resolved.

Winnipeg, business, strike