The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is expected to meet with employees of Cost Pro Supermarket on Friday as efforts continue to determine the way forward following the company’s abrupt closure.

General Secretary David Massiah and ABWU President Kem Riley visited the supermarket on Thursday evening shortly after staff were informed that the business was shutting down with immediate effect. The union officials met with workers, many of whom were left distressed and seeking answers about their employment status and outstanding benefits.

Kem Riley, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union

The discussions are expected to continue on Friday as the union assesses the situation and advises employees on their legal rights and available options.

The supermarket ceased operations around 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, with workers receiving termination letters advising them that the company was permanently closing its business.

The letter, dated July 9, 2026, states that the closure has resulted in all positions becoming redundant.

“We regret to inform you that Cost Pro Supermarket will be closing its business operations permanently and will no longer operate,” the letter states.

David Massiah, General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union

Management advised employees that their final day of employment was July 9 and indicated that payroll records would be reviewed to determine outstanding wages, accrued vacation pay, notice pay where applicable, and severance benefits in accordance with Antigua and Barbuda’s labour laws.

Workers were also told they would receive a separate payment statement by July 17 detailing any monies owed to them. The company instructed employees to return all company property, including uniforms, identification cards, keys, equipment and documents.

Despite those assurances, many workers remain deeply concerned.

Notice of Termination for Cost Pro Employees

Employees have alleged that they have received no firm commitment that outstanding wages, severance payments, or other statutory benefits will actually be paid. The uncertainty has heightened anxiety among staff, many of whom now face immediate financial hardship.

Adding to those concerns are unverified allegations circulating among employees that the company and its owner may be preparing to leave Antigua and Barbuda as early as Friday. Those claims have not been independently confirmed.

The circumstances surrounding the supermarket’s sudden closure remain unclear, and the company has not publicly explained what led to the decision to permanently cease operations.

With dozens of workers now out of jobs without prior notice, Friday’s meeting with the ABWU is expected to focus on protecting employees’ rights and determining what legal and industrial action may be necessary to secure any outstanding payments owed to staff.