Breakthrough in SAQ Labor Negotiations
Office employees at the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) have successfully reached an agreement in principle with management, marking a significant development in ongoing labor negotiations. The breakthrough was announced on November 19, 2025, potentially bringing stability to the provincial liquor board's operations.
Details of the Tentative Agreement
While specific terms of the agreement remain confidential pending ratification by union members, sources indicate the deal addresses key concerns raised by office staff during negotiations. The agreement comes after months of discussions between the union representing SAQ office workers and management representatives.
The SAQ, as Quebec's exclusive retailer and wholesaler of alcoholic beverages, employs thousands of workers across the province, including administrative and office personnel who play crucial roles in the corporation's daily operations. This tentative agreement suggests both parties have found common ground on contentious issues that had previously stalled negotiations.
Potential Impact and Next Steps
The agreement in principle represents a critical step toward formalizing new working conditions for SAQ office staff. Union members will now review the proposed terms before holding a ratification vote in the coming weeks. If approved, the agreement would establish new employment terms and prevent potential labor disruptions that could have affected Quebec's alcohol retail system.
This development follows similar labor agreements reached across various sectors in Quebec, reflecting ongoing efforts to address worker concerns while maintaining essential services for Quebec consumers. The SAQ agreement demonstrates the continuing evolution of labor relations in the province's public sector corporations.
