Grocery Workers Approve Contract

The Grocery workers union released the following statment regarding the vote to ratify the new labor contract with three supermarket chains, Ralphs, Vons and Alberstons.

Grocery Workers turned out in large numbers Friday and Saturday across Southern California to review and vote on their proposed contract.

As recommended by the Union leadership, the members voted to approve their contract during voting all day Friday and Saturday.  

“This deal protects our members’ health care and pension, and provides modest increases in wages,” said Rick Icaza, president of the grocery workers  union, UFCW Local 770.

“This is a win for grocery workers, our communities, and our local economy.  Without the unity and determination of our members, this deal would not have been possible. And without the unwavering support of consumers and the community, it would have been a much tougher fight. To those supporters, thank you,” concluded Icaza.

The new contract affects approximately 62,000 workers in a region that spans between Kern, Inyo and Mono Counties in the north, the Mexican border in the south and the Arizona border in the east. Its term will extend from March 7, 2011, to March 2, 2014.