Posts Categorized: Grocery

After months of negotiations, over 14,000 members of UFCW Local 1996 who work at Kroger stores throughout Georgia and in two stores in east Alabama ratified new contracts on March 25 and 26.

The four-year contracts include the following provisions:

• Some of the highest wage increases ever included in Kroger contracts  
  
  
• Quality, affordable health care benefits for full- and part-time members
  
  
• Enhancements to the health and welfare plan
  
  
• Protection of pensions
  
  
• New process for determining full- and part-time status

“When workers and their union come to the table together with the company to find solutions, everyone benefits” said International Vice President and UFCW Local 1996 President Eric T. Taylor.

On Feb. 21, about 50 workers at Marlene’s Market & Deli in Tacoma, Wash., voted to join UFCW Local 367.

Marlene’s Market & Deli was recently acquired by Lassen’s Natural Foods & Vitamins, a California-based chain. The workers decided to join UFCW Local 367 via a National Labor Relations Board election after experiencing numerous changes implemented by Lassen’s, including reduced store hours, decreased paid time off, eliminated holiday pay, and changes to health care benefits.

Standing together in solidarity under the banner “We Are Marlene’s,” the workers were determined to reclaim their workplace and ensure it remains a place of respect, integrity, and dignity, reflecting the values and commitment to community that Marlene’s has long upheld.

“I’ve enjoyed working at Marlene’s and have the upmost respect for everyone that works and shops there” said Monica Poole, who has worked at Marlene’s Market & Deli for 10 years. “We are joining UFCW 367 because we need a strong voice and deserve livable wages and affordable quality health care.”

“Marlene’s has been a staple of quality food in our community for many years,” said UFCW Local 367 President Michael Hines. “I’m inspired by the workers taking action to organize so they can continue serving the greater Tacoma area with pride. Employees now have a voice after being purchased by a larger chain, which is really what our member-driven approach is about.”