In this week’s meetings with Kroger and Albertsons/Safeway, our member-led Bargaining Team heard the first staffing proposal from Kroger. Unfortunately, their proposal fell well short of what we need to ensure safe stores for workers and customers. As we continue the fight on staffing, we are beginning the fight for better wages. We sent the Employers a full pay proposal that keeps pace with rising costs and reflects the level of respect we deserve at work. Among other things, our union proposal includes: 

Big pay increases for journeypersons
Big increases in premium and lead pay
Additional paid holidays
A wage scale that allows workers to get raises faster

After we shared our needs with the Employer, they met us with blank stares and quiet contemplation. We anticipate their response at the next bargaining session on April 17, 2025. You can find all updates and proposals at ufcw3000.org/better-staffing

We made significant progress with Albertsons/Safeway, as the company agreed to withdraw many of their most aggressive takeaway proposals. Workplace actions at Albertsons/Safeway locations that were scheduled for Thursday, April 3 are postponed. Unfortunately, Kroger still is proposing to replace union work with non-union work by hiring a vendor with a dubious health and safety record to cut fruit in our stores. Consequently, our April 3 workplace actions aim to send a clear message: HANDS OFF OUR WORK. We need better wages and real solutions to the staffing crisis, not a workplace full of non-union contractors and machines. 

Upcoming Bargaining Dates: April 17, 21, 22, 28, 29, 30

Stand Up Fight Back! April 3 Workplace actions
We know that when workers unite, we can win better wages, staffing, and working conditions. By showing our solidarity and educating customers and co-workers, we send a message that we are ready to fight for the fair contract we deserve.

Puget Sound Allied Grocery Stores The Clock Is Ticking

The Puget Sound Allied Grocery Stores are involved in ongoing bargaining with Kroger and Albertsons/Safeway to improve working conditions and wages. Negotiations with Kroger have not been fruitful, as their staffing proposal is insufficient. In contrast, Albertsons/Safeway has agreed to withdraw some aggressive proposals. The union is planning workplace actions on April 3 to protest against potential non-union work and to demand better wages and staffing solutions. Further bargaining sessions are scheduled for April 17, 21, 22, 28, 29, and 30.