A union local that represents some of the workers at some Loblaw stores in Ontario says it is “ramping up strike preparations.”

This comes after its members rejected a tentative contract.

Local 1000A of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Canada says its members at Loblaws Great Food and Superstore had rejected the agreement – during votes held around Ontario from June 14th  to 20th.

The Local says it will train picket captains this week.

The union local represents about 12,000 workers in produce, bakery and meat departments – in addition to bookkeepers and accountants.

UFCW Local 1000A’s website says the tentative agreement – dated June 2nd – applies to members at Loblaws, Real Canadian Super Stores and Great Canadian Food Stores – just three of the many banners within the Loblaw group of companies.

Local 1000A did not give a vote count – and said final percentages would be provided early this week, “but the fact the tentative agreement was rejected won’t change. Your union is ramping up strike preparations.”

There’s been no comment from Loblaw.