Our union will hold a vote to authorize a strike, if necessary, by members of Local 770 who are employed by Ralphs, Vons, Albertsons, and Pavilions.
Why a strike authorization vote?
The corporate owners of the stores are delaying a deal and demanding takeaways:
- 3 months since the contract expired
- Cut top-rate for GM clerks
- Slash wages for checkers
- Wage increases for other workers of only 20 cents, less than 1%.
- Put healthcare plan at risk of bankruptcy
All this when corporate executives are giving themselves 34% raises and paying out $250 million to investors.
The time has come to show the companies we won’t take this anymore and they need to get serious about a fair deal. This will show them we are united and ready to fight for what is right.
What does a Strike Authorization vote mean?
It means we give the power to call a strike, if necessary, to the negotiators at the table. It does not mean we go on strike right away. But it does show the corporate owners of the stores that we are united in our demand for a fair, balanced contract that respects our contribution to their success, and prepared to fight for it.
What’s next?
We vote on Monday, June 24th and Tuesday, June 25th. After we tally the votes, we will announce the results. It is absolutely critical that every member gets out to vote.
Hopefully the corporate negotiators return to the table and get serious about a fair deal.
If not, we continue to prepare to show them our determination to get a fair deal, and strike if necessary.