The union seeking to certify Wal-Mart workers has scored a victory in Quebec, but is still working on three stores in London. The United Food and Commercial Workers Union of Canada (UFCW) has applied to represent workers at a Wal-Mart in Jonquiere, Que., after more than 50 per cent of the workers signed union cards.

If the application is accepted by Quebec's labour board, it would become the first unionized Wal-Mart in North America, but UFCW spokesperson Michael Forman said the company is expected to strongly challenge the application in a series of hearings.

Meanwhile, a union drive at three London Wal-Marts is continuing as part of a nation-wide organizing drive.

"The campaign continues, but there is nothing big to report on . . . these campaigns can take months," said Forman.

Unlike Quebec, Ontario labour laws require a certification vote be held even after a majority of workers sign cards.

Wal-Mart Canada officials could not be reached for comment.

The UFCW fears Wal-Mart has such a growing presence in the retail sector -- a fourth Wal-Mart store may locate in London, at Wonderland and Southdale roads, and its big-box arm, Sam's Club, will open next year at Hyde Park and Fanshawe Park roads -- it will drive down wages and work standards for unionized retail workers.

Wal-Mart is the world's largest retailer, with 4,300 facilities around the globe.

Formed in 1979, the UFCW union has 1.4 million members in Canada and the U.S.