_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 to champion fair representation, improved working conditions, and mutual respect across all sectors of employment.