Over 55,000 Canada Post employees represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) began a national strike today, halting postal services across Canada just as the holiday season approaches. This disruption poses significant challenges for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Saskatchewan, which rely heavily on Canada Post for their daily operations.

98.9% of businesses in Saskatchewan are small businesses, and the majority of them rely on Canada Post to reach their customers. For many, it is the primary or only option for shipping products, especially in rural areas. Without access to this critical service, businesses are forced to turn to alternative shipping methods, which are often more expensive. Most SMEs also lack extensive logistics networks, leaving them with few options to navigate this disruption. These added costs and challenges strain their operations, making it harder to compete during an already busy holiday season.

The Chamber is urging Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, to act swiftly to resolve the labour dispute and restore postal services. SMEs are the backbone of Saskatchewan’s economy, and their ability to operate smoothly is essential for the province’s economic health. Without timely intervention, the effects of this disruption could weaken the small-business sector and ripple through the economy for months to come.

Update: December 5, 2025

The ongoing strike at Canada Post has entered its third week, creating significant challenges for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). New data from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) reveals that this disruption has cost SMEs over $1 billion to date—or $76.6 million per business day.

While larger firms may be able to use alternative shipping services with minimal added cost, 98.8% of businesses in Saskatchewan are SMEs who often rely heavily on Canada Post for affordable and reliable shipping, making it difficult to pivot to costlier alternatives. As a result, many are struggling to fulfill orders, manage cash flow, and maintain customer relationships. For businesses that depend on affordable, timely deliveries—especially in rural areas—this strike is a significant disruption during a critical shopping season.

The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is actively advocating for action. We have independently written to federal Ministers Duclos and MacKinnon, urging them to intervene immediately to resolve this dispute, and are signatories to the Canadian Chamber’s call to action

Letter to Minister Duclos and Minister MacKinnon Regarding the Canada Post Strike