Press Release: YVR Airport Workers Rally for World Cup Bonus, $30 Wage, Job Security Ahead of FIFA World Cup

VANCOUVER, BC —Dozens of YVR Airport concession workers, represented by UNITE HERE Local 40, held a rally at the airport yesterday calling for a $30 wage and stronger job security protections as they prepare to welcome visitors attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The rally comes after workers delivered a petition signed by more than 1,500 airport workers to the Vancouver Airport Authority last month.  The petition demanded a $1,000 FIFA World Cup bonus to all airport workers.

“We aren’t asking for millions of dollars. Our hard work makes YVR the number one airport in North America.  We’re asking for $30 an hour and a World Cup bonus because we’re barely making enough to cover rent and our bills,” said Aswin Murali, a cook employed by SSP’s Whistler Brewing.

Despite record passenger volumes, strong airport revenues of $717 million, and preparations for the World Cup which will generate millions for YVR and FIFA, many airport workers struggle with low wages, precarity, and the rising cost of living.  Workers say that those gains should be shared with the very concession workers who contribute to the airport’s success.

“Too many airport concession workers are juggling two or three jobs to make ends meet. They are dedicated but low-paid and still vulnerable to contract flipping.  FIFA World Cup will generate wealth for game organizers, the city, and the Airport Authority, but what about those who serve them?  Workers deserve their fair share,” said Gulzar Grewal, UNITE HERE Local 40 Vice-President.”

UNITE HERE Local 40 represents over 1,000 airport concession workers at YVR and growing.  Most recently, Compass workers at Air Canada Lounges across the airport voted to join the union.

Media Contact: Michelle Travis, [email protected], 778-960-9785