Workers at Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment, the company operating the Scotiabank Arena, BMO Field, and the Coca-Cola Coliseum have ratified a new collective agreement.
Teamsters Local Union 847 represents approximately 2000 workers who bring some of Toronto’s biggest sporting venues to life. Their members include ushers, cleaners, warehouse workers, kitchen staff, conversion and ice crews, servers, bartenders, gate staff, restaurant teams, and much more.
The new contract eliminates forced shifts in the collective agreement, where the employer compelled staff to take specific shifts under threat of discipline. The change gives workers far more flexibility and control over their work lives.
The new contract also sets out a 17% raise over five years. Suggested tip amounts on payment terminals have also been increased.
“They aren’t the centre of the show, but our members are key players on some of Toronto’s biggest professional sports teams. Toronto simply would not have professional hockey, football, or basketball teams without their labour. I’m glad the new contract recognizes their importance and the value they bring to this city,” said the president of Teamsters Local Union 847, Fernanda Santos.