Understanding Severance Pay and Rights at Sysco Canada
Get all the answers related to your employment changes

Sysco Canada, Inc. is a leading foodservice distributor with a significant presence across the country, including operations in the Brampton area. As a subsidiary of Sysco Corporation, headquartered in Houston, Texas, Sysco Canada employs over 6,000 individuals nationwide, offering a wide range of products and services to various foodservice operations, including restaurants, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.
Over the years, Sysco has undergone various restructuring efforts that have impacted its workforce. For instance, in 2016, Sysco announced plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 2%, affecting around 1,200 employees in administrative, non-customer-facing roles over a 15-month period.
Steps to Take if Terminated or Offered Severance
- Review the Severance Package Thoroughly: Carefully examine any severance offer presented by Sysco Canada. Understand all terms, including compensation, benefits continuation, and any clauses that may affect future employment.
- Consult with an Employment Lawyer: Seek legal advice to assess the fairness of the severance package. An employment lawyer can provide insights into whether the offer aligns with industry standards and your legal entitlements. In Canada, non-unionized employees at Sysco may be entitled to up to 24 months of severance pay when terminated without cause.
- Understand Your Rights Under Employment Law: Familiarize yourself with your rights regarding termination and severance under Canadian employment law. For instance, employees with at least 12 consecutive months of continuous employment may be entitled to severance pay.
- Negotiate if Necessary: If the severance offer is inadequate, be prepared to negotiate. Your lawyer can assist in this process to help secure a more favorable package.
- Avoid Signing Under Pressure: Do not rush into signing any documents. Take the necessary time to fully understand the implications and seek professional advice before making a decision.
FAQs
- Am I obligated to accept the initial severance offer? No, you are not required to accept the first offer. It's advisable to consult with an employment lawyer to determine if the offer is fair and to explore potential negotiations.
- What if I have been with Sysco Canada for a short period? Even with shorter tenure, you may still be entitled to certain severance benefits. Legal counsel can provide guidance based on your specific situation.
- Can I seek employment elsewhere after accepting a severance package? Typically, yes. However, review the terms of your severance agreement for any clauses that might restrict future employment, such as non-compete clauses.
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 Sysco 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.
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