Employees of Vernon G. Edwards Limited are set to benefit from improved working conditions and enhanced employment benefits following the successful conclusion of the company’s first Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU).

The agreement, which covers the period January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027, marks a significant milestone for both the company and its workforce, bringing to an end negotiations that had remained unresolved for several years.

According to the ABWU, progress accelerated in recent months after Vernon G. Edwards appointed a new management and negotiating team, led by Jamil Spencer, which worked closely with union representatives and employees to finalize the agreement.

Industrial Relations Consultant Hazel Luke praised the cooperative approach taken during the negotiations, noting that the commitment of management, staff, and shop stewards was instrumental in achieving a successful outcome.

“The new management team demonstrated a genuine willingness to engage constructively and move the negotiations forward,” Luke said, adding that employees also made meaningful contributions throughout the process.

While negotiating the agreement, the union acknowledged that the company had already implemented substantial salary increases outside of the bargaining process.

As a result, both parties agreed to a wage structure that includes a salary freeze in the first year of the agreement, followed by a two percent increase in both the second and third years.

In addition to wage adjustments, the agreement introduces several new benefits for employees. These include increased vacation leave, a provision allowing workers to carry over up to one-third of unused vacation days from the previous year, and a 10 percent discount on freight charges for employees’ personal imports.

The agreement also provides transportation for employees required to work beyond 6:30 p.m. and strengthens workplace safety measures through annual medical examinations and the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff handling packages originating from external sources.

ABWU General Secretary David Massiah welcomed the signing of the agreement, describing it as an example of how positive labour-management relations can benefit both businesses and employees.

“The Union seeks to build constructive relationships that benefit both employees and employers,” Massiah said. “Strong industrial relations contribute to stronger businesses, more satisfied workers, and healthier workplaces.”

Industrial Relations Consultant Jake Taylor also expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the importance of fostering collaboration rather than conflict in workplace relations.

“We want to build a culture of collaboration,” Taylor said. “Traditionally, some people view management and unions as opposing sides, but we want to ensure that we do right by our employees.”

The agreement represents the first formal collective bargaining arrangement between Vernon G. Edwards Limited and its unionized workforce and is expected to provide a stronger framework for labour relations within the company over the next three years.