Forty members of UFCW Local 152 who are employed by The Fresh Grocer approved a strong four-year agreement last month. Meat, Seafood, and Deli Department workers at the store’s two Philadelphia-area locations received immediate, across-the-board wage increases, with a market adjustment benefit for department managers and classified positions.
Contributions to the Retirement Savings Plan also went up, and members will receive additional paid personal holidays to make up for Pennsylvania’s lack of state-mandated paid sick leave. Time off for bereavement leave was also expanded.
Additionally, new language was added to ensure that workers are prepared for emergencies by requiring the employer to have ongoing discussions with union representatives about health and safety in the workplace.
UFCW Local 152’s Recorder/Executive Vice President Lisa Sanders said the new agreement is a win for workers.
“Congratulations to members of Fresh Grocer on ratifying a strong new collective bargaining agreement that benefits everyone,” she said. “The workers now have higher starting rates, annual wage increases, additional paid time off, and they maintain their good union benefits.”