Tensions continue to rise as Safeway workers represented by United Food and Commercial Workers Local 5 are on the brink of a strike in Northern California. The decision came after most union members voted to authorize an Unfair Labor Practice strike against Safeway, citing stagnant wages and unfair labor practices. According to UFCW Local 5, more than 95 percent of voting members are prepared to strike if demands are not met, adding pressure to ongoing contract negotiations.
Last week, Local 5 made their frustrations public with a vote and a picket outside a Pleasant Hill Safeway. Roughly 100 workers rallied against the current offer from the supermarket, demanding higher wages, better healthcare, and stronger retirement benefits. "We just feel like we come to work, we’re dedicated, we give our blood, sweat and tears to Safeway," employee Ardith Wells told KTVU. "We just want to know as employees it’s reflected in our pay, our benefits, and what we’ve got."
The discord stems from the union's standpoint that current full-time salaries, which average around $28 an hour, are insufficient amidst the cost of living in the Bay Area. Jim Araby, a spokesperson for UFCW Local 5, expressed the union's position to KTVU, stating, "Settle with the workers in Northern California like you did in Washington, like you did in Southern California, like you did in Colorado. People want a little more of an increase, just so they can live on a full-time job here."
While the union has officially filed federal Unfair Labor Practice charges against Safeway, they have agreed to resume negotiations with the help of a federal mediator on July 15 and 16. A public demonstration also took place at the Safeway on Contra Costa Blvd. in Pleasant Hill, further signaling the workers' solidarity. "United, fired up, and standing strong!" was the mantra shared by the UFCW Local 5 Instagram page, indicating the high spirits of the bargaining committee and union members.
Safeway has responded, attempting to reassure its commitment to the negotiation process. "We remain committed to engaging in good-faith discussions to reach a new agreement with UFCW locals," read a statement to KTVU. "We value our associates and the critical role they play in our success. We have put forward a strong offer that includes meaningful wage increases, continued investment in secure healthcare coverage, and the long-term stability of the pension plan, reflecting both the dedication of our associates and the real economic conditions facing our industry."
