In what a union representative is calling a “major blow to Northern Ontario’s food manufacturing sector,” Wonderbrands has announced it will end sliced bread production at its Sudbury facility. The decision will see approximately 50 people lose their jobs, including all part-time positions and several full-time roles at the facility.
Wonderbrands is the parent company of well-known baked goods brands including Wonder Bread, D'Italiano, and Country Harvest.
The affected unionized employees are represented by Local 175 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW).
“This is more than just a loss of jobs,” said Kelly Tosato, president of UFCW Local 175, in a press release.
“It’s a loss for the entire community. Northern Ontario cannot continue to bear the brunt of corporate decisions that put profits ahead of people.”
While the current collective agreement provides severance provisions and early retirement options, these measures cannot fully offset the impact on workers, their families, and the local economy, said the press release.
The union is actively engaged in discussions with Wonderbrands to assist affected members to receive the support they need, including transition programs, retraining opportunities, and support services.
The company cites declining sales and reduced demand for sliced bread as the reason for the production shutdown. However, the facility will continue operating its bun product line.
“Supporting local business and local products is key to attracting new business and product lines and keeping good-paying jobs in the North,” said Derik McArthur, regional director for UFCW Local 175.
The union is calling on all levels of government to recognize the ongoing erosion of good manufacturing jobs in the North and to take immediate action to support affected workers and protect the region’s economic future.
UFCW Locals 175 & 633 represent more than 70,000 workers across Ontario in a wide range of sectors, including industrial manufacturing, automotive parts, health care, retail and meat and poultry processing.
