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- calendar_today November 13, 2026
Highland Valley Copper Mine Workers Remain on Strike
The strike by more than 1,200 unionized workers at the Highland Valley Copper mine near Logan Lake is entering its third week, raising concerns among local business owners about dwindling cash flow and the future of the local economy.
Business Revenue Decline in Logan Lake
Logan Lake, located about 15 kilometres from the Highland Valley Copper Mine, serves as a hub for many mine employees and contractors. Businesses in the community, like the Pick and Shovel Pub, have been directly impacted by the ongoing copper mine strike. Gian Leocata, co-owner of the pub, stated that business is down 25 percent. In addition to the pub, his liquor store and hotel have also seen major revenue drops, with 21 hotel rooms left mostly unoccupied. Leocata noted, "The revenue as a whole has dropped. The cash flow essentially dried up, pretty much in about a week."
Other Businesses Also Affected
CBC News contacted two other Logan Lake businesses, which confirmed they have seen impacts since the beginning of the strike, though they were not available for further interviews. The overall sentiment among local businesses is one of increasing financial strain and uncertainty as the strike continues.
Wider Regional Economic Impact
David Fairey, a labour expert at the Centre for Future Work, explained that the strike’s effects will be felt not just in Logan Lake, but throughout the surrounding region. "Particularly for the smaller communities where the majority of the workers are living and spending their money, this could have a very significant impact in both the short and the long term," Fairey said. The economic repercussions are expected to reach communities such as Ashcroft and Kamloops, as Highland Valley Copper is the largest employer in the Thompson-Nicola region.
Union Stands Firm, Negotiations on Hold
Kyle Wolff, president of United Steelworkers Local 7619, which represents the striking workers, reported that no new talks have been scheduled between the union and management. The ongoing job action continues to leave more than 1,200 unionized employees off the job at one of Canada's largest open-pit copper mines.
Uncertainty for the Future
Despite the challenges, some business owners remain hopeful for a resolution. Leocata said, "We're just going to try to hunker down and try to weather the storm, and hopefully the parties will come to a resolution swiftly and fairly for everyone." Teck Resources, the company that owns Highland Valley Copper Mine, declined a request for an interview regarding the current situation.
Looking Ahead
As the strike at Highland Valley Copper mine stretches into its third week, local businesses in Logan Lake and surrounding areas face ongoing hardships, and questions remain about how long they can sustain the downturn. With negotiations still at a standstill, the fate of workers, businesses, and the broader regional economy hangs in the balance.
Related coverage
Source: cbc.ca.
