Small businesses are worried about the impacts of a nationwide postal strike, now that workers have walked off the job, according to Duncan Roberts, Director of Legislative Affairs with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).

The federal government announced big changes to Canada Post, Thursday, including cutting back door to door delivery as well as the shutdown of rural offices.

In response, members of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers went on strike hours later.

CFIB says the last strike alone cost small firms over $1 billion, so it’s been a difficult time.

“The strike really came out of the blue, so having to adapt quickly. They’re worried about the financial stability and sustainability of Canada Post, which was a low-cost option to provide shipping for these small businesses,” says Robertson.

He adds, the start and stop of labour disruptions has an impact on operations, particularly this time of year.

“It’s a concern going into the fall and winter months when we do expect shipping to increase,” explains Robertson.

He says, there is a need for changes at Canada Post and hopefully they can be made efficiently and quickly to sustain the service.

In the meantime, small businesses may have to look elsewhere for other shipping options.