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Approximately 5,500 Members of UFCW Local 1776 Keystone State who work at Giant Eagle ratified their new contract August 8 and 9.

The new agreement features a $10 per hour starting rate, which rises to $11.00 in in two years, and substantial wage increases for current and future associates in each year of the contract. The contract also allows associates to continue receiving medical coverage without any weekly payroll contributions, and includes improvements to eye, dental, life, disability and 401 (k) benefits. In addition, the contract includes changes to encourage advancement and enhance members’ career prospects; a commitment from the company to create more than 60 full-time jobs; and better coverage during the stores’ busiest periods to better meet customer needs. The three-year contract covers members in 35 Giant Eagle supermarket locations in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

“I am proud of the hard work and commitment of our bargaining committee,” said UFCW Local 1776 President Wendell Young IV. “Through months of negotiations, our committee remained steadfast and ensured all key issues were addressed. Contract negotiations can be tough, but both sides here were able to reach across the table and shake hands on a fair contract that, for our members, ensures strong wages and great benefits, while working with the company to provide the best customer service possible. This is a very good result for our members, customers and the company.”