Gordon Food Service Canada (GFS) is a leading foodservice distributor with significant operations across Canada, including Brampton and the Greater Toronto Area. With over 125 years of experience, GFS supplies restaurants, healthcare facilities, schools, and other foodservice businesses, making it a vital part of the Canadian food industry. The company employs thousands of individuals nationwide and periodically undergoes operational adjustments that may impact employment status, including layoffs, restructuring, and voluntary severance programs.

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Steps to Take if Terminated or Offered Severance

1. Carefully Review Your Severance Package: Begin by thoroughly reviewing any severance documents provided by Gordon Food Service. Pay close attention to details like the amount of compensation, duration of benefit coverage, and terms regarding confidentiality, non-compete clauses, or restrictions on future employment.
2. Seek Advice from an Employment Lawyer: It is strongly advisable to consult with an employment lawyer to evaluate whether the severance package offered aligns with industry standards and your legal entitlements. A lawyer can identify potential issues, negotiate on your behalf, and help secure a more favorable outcome.
3. Understand Your Rights Under Employment Law: Familiarize yourself with Ontario's Employment Standards Act (ESA) and applicable common-law entitlements. Generally, employees who have been terminated without cause may be entitled to more substantial severance pay than initially offered, depending on their length of employment, position, age, and the availability of similar employment.
4. Consider Negotiating Your Severance Offer: If the initial offer seems insufficient, remember that you have the right to negotiate. Many severance offers are open to discussion, and an experienced employment lawyer can help advocate for better terms, including higher compensation or extended benefits.
5. Take Your Time Before Signing: Never sign severance documents under pressure or without fully understanding their implications. Employers typically allow a reasonable amount of time for review. Use this time wisely to seek advice and fully evaluate your options.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Am I required to accept the initial severance offer from GFS? No. You are under no obligation to accept the initial severance offer. Consulting with an employment lawyer is recommended to ensure the offer is fair and appropriate for your circumstances.
• Do short-term employees qualify for severance pay? Yes, even employees with relatively short tenure may be eligible for severance pay under Ontario employment law. The specific amount depends on various factors, which your lawyer can assess.
• Can I find a new job immediately after accepting severance pay? Generally, yes. However, ensure there are no non-compete or similar restrictive clauses in your severance agreement. These terms should be clearly reviewed with your lawyer before you accept any package.

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At Randy Ai Brampton Employment Lawyers, we specialize in helping employees understand their rights during challenging transitions. Our experienced employment law team has extensive expertise handling termination and severance issues, particularly with major employers like Gordon Food Service Canada. We ensure your rights are fully protected and aim to maximize your severance package, providing a smooth transition to your next opportunity.

Please do not hesitate to contact our experienced Brampton employment lawyers for a free legal consultation. Randy Ai Brampton Employment Lawyers can be reached at 365-536-2474 or by filling out the contact form.