St. John’ s Antigua – 21 November 2025 – The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU)
and Goddard Catering Group have signed a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
covering the period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2028. The agreement, which benefits employees at
both the Coolidge and Mount St. John’s locations, delivers meaningful improvements in wages
and working conditions.
Among the key highlights of the new agreement is a salary increase over each of the three years.
In the first year, workers will receive an increase of no less than $30 per week. In the second
year, wages will increase by no less than $25 per week, and in the final year, workers will benefit
from an additional increase of no less than $20 per week, providing an average annual increase
of approximately 5%.
The agreement also strengthens several existing benefits. Paternity leave has been increased from
five to ten days, while compassionate leave has been extended beyond immediate family
members to include certain extended relatives. Additionally, the company will now provide
transportation for staff working shifts that begin before 6:00 a.m. or end after 10:00 p.m.,
enhancing employee safety and convenience.
Senior Industrial Relations Officer Fernando Samuel commended the shop stewards for their
dedication and cooperation throughout the negotiation process. He also encouraged workers to
remain engaged with their Union, attend meetings, raise concerns, and contribute ideas to
strengthen future negotiations.
Human Resource Lead at GCG Antigua, Arion Ryan, described the relationship with the Union
as “amicable”. She said the negotiations produced an agreement that was in the best interest of
the company and the workers. Ryan proudly added that the increases achieved for the staff were
among the highest the company has negotiated in recent years.
The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union extends its appreciation to all parties involved for
their commitment to achieving an agreement that advances the welfare of workers while
supporting the continued success of Goddard Catering. The Union reaffirms its pledge tochampion fair representation, improved working conditions, and mutual respect across all sectors
of empl
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
