Vons groceries store. Photo credit: Alexander Nguyen
Tens of thousands of grocery workers voted to strike if needed as they continue to seek higher wages from Kroger Co. and Albertsons stores in Southern California.
Local 770 of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) confirmed the vote Saturday.
UFCW 770 has been seeking significantly higher and equal pay, sufficient staffing and enough working hours in negotiations with the grocers, which began on Jan. 28.
The union said in a statement that it will notify the 48,000 Southern California grocery workers about next steps.
“A strike is always a last resort, and we will continue to push for the companies to do the right thing and come to the table prepared to bargain in good faith,” officials said. “A representative from your union will notify workers if a decision is made to strike.”
Local 770 said there was a big disconnect between its proposal and an hourly raise of 60 cents – or less than a 1% increase – offered by the grocers, including Ralphs, Albertsons, Pavilions and Vons.
Kroger-owned Ralphs called the union’s proposal unrealistic as it is expensive to do business in California. The company though proposed to maintain its nearly $133 million investment in annual health care benefits.
The grocer, which has around 190 stores in California, said it might have to start making contingency plans, including advertising for temporary workers, to keep its business running.
As the previous contract expired on March 6, the labor union has lodged unfair labor practice charges against the grocers. They include allegations of attempts to influence members by providing gifts.
The union said bargaining with the grocers resumes on Wednesday.
Ralphs also said on Monday it was hopeful the union would return to the bargaining table with renewed interest in reaching a balanced deal.
Albertsons did not respond to a request for comment.
–Frrom wire and staff reports