The union representing Walmart employees alleges the company "punished" workers with a wage freeze after it was formed earlier this month.

"Exercising your basic rights is not a punishable offence in a democracy," said Unifor national president Lana Payne.

"The spike in unionization at Walmart facilities in Canada is evidence that workers at Walmart are ready to improve their job security, wages, and working conditions."

She added that a legally enforceable collective bargaining agreement is needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the recent wage increases at non-union facilities.

"To the non-union Walmart workers who did receive the modest wage bump: experience worldwide shows that you cannot trust this company's motives," said Payne. "Only a union contract can secure the future wage increases and job security you deserve."

We have reached out to the company for comment.

Walmart is getting called out for anti-union tactics, including punitive wage freezes, as more workers at Canadian sites join Unifor.#Unifor #canlab https://t.co/X3aR1fqDZX

— Unifor (@UniforTheUnion) December 6, 2024

In September, the retailer announced that it would invest $92 million in increasing hourly wages for supply chain workers and store associates. That's the second time this year the company has increased wages, committing $53 million in July.

Walmart also highlighted additional compensation offered to its employees, including an annual incentive bonus aligned with company performance, comprehensive benefits coverage, access to 24/7 virtual care, a deferred profit-sharing retirement plan, and a discounted stock purchase program.

Employees are also given a 10 per cent discount card for groceries and general merchandise sold at stores and on Walmart's website.

Unifor says it's seeing unprecedented interest in unionization among the company's employees across Canada.

Mississauga warehouse workers joined in September, followed by drivers in Surrey. Unionized workers in these cities are in the process of negotiating their first contract.

"Walmart's non-union wage increases simply demonstrate where we ought to begin union wage talks," said Payne.

Punitive wage freezes during union certification processes are prohibited under the Canada Labour Code.

Unifor also filed a complaint on December 3 to the Canada Industrial Relations Board, claiming Walmart distributed anti-union materials, held captive audience meetings to spread misleading information, and encouraged workers to revoke union membership.