Build It local: Calls for Costco to hire local trades

Windsor-Essex ironworkers protest at the new east end Costco site in Windsor, Ont. on June 24, 2026. (Stefanie Masotti/CTV News Windsor)

Local ironworkers are slamming Costco for allegedly outsourcing out-of-town subcontractors.

Dozens of local ironworkers picketing the new east end location Wednesday.

“We’re out here to make people in Windsor and Essex aware that Costco is bringing in people from out of town to put up steel when we have a high unemployment rate of over eight per cent in Windsor-Essex and amongst the youth, 20 per cent,” stated Don Smith, local ironworker and member of Unifor Local 700.

“Everybody knows how hard it is to pay the bills even when you’re working. And then you’re unemployed. It’s even harder.”

The $130 million development is described as highly complex, involving an environmental assessment, land assembly, re-zoning, severances, expropriations, and multiple ministry and Indigenous approvals.

It’s being built on Catherine Street behind Home Depot and is expected to include a gas station. The plans call for approximately 25,000 square metres of floor space and up to 1,400 parking spots.

CTV News has reached out to Costco Canada for comment. Officials have not responded as of this publication.