Workers at a popular chain of Manitoba nail salons are calling for compensation, saying that staff at three locations have not been paid in months. Employees at Almond Nail Bar’s Polo Park, Meadowood and Niverville locations took part in an emergency protest on Thursday in an attempt to get some answers. Workers say the Niverville location was temporarily closed and staff members were laid off. They also allege they have not been given a reopening date or received the wages they are owed. The Polo Park branch was also recently closed, with staff members alleging exploitation. One employee told CTV News they received an email from management saying they would get paid at the end of October; however, the employee said not all staff members received their wages. “I need money. We need compensation…They paid only a few staff members because they know that we are going to stand by our rights,” said nail tech Harjeet Cheema. “And they did not pay the other staff because they know they cannot speak very fluent English and their work permits are about to expire. They cannot even fight for their right after. So, I’m here, I’m going to stand by it.” In a statement from Almond Nail Bar’s founder and CEO Thomas Nguyen, he said he apologized to all employees for the uncertainty caused by payroll delays. He added the delayed wages are due to “cash flow challenges,” adding that he takes responsibility for addressing the situation. “I’m pleased to share that, as of November 5, our management team has confirmed that most affected employees at our Niverville, Meadowood, and Polo Park locations have been paid up to date,” he said in the statement. “Our team continues to work diligently to reconcile and resolve any remaining outstanding payments.” Nguyen added that they have temporarily suspended operations at affected stores while they evaluate their business. He noted that they look forward to reopening these nail salons once they can do so responsibly. “To our employees who have expressed frustration and concern, I want you to know that we hear you and understand your disappointment,” he said. “You have every right to expect fair treatment and timely payment. I sincerely regret that we have fallen short.” Nguyen said Almond Nail Bar’s immediate priority is dealing with payroll issues and, moving forward, they will work to improve financial oversight and build a more sustainable business.
