Union Stalls on Bargaining Dates

Fred Meyer has been clear about our commitment to reaching an agreement that invests in your wages and benefits throughout negotiations with UFCW Local 555 on the expired contracts covering our Portland and Bend associates.

• Since late July, we’ve held seven bargaining sessions over 12 days, making some progress on language items, though that progress has slowed significantly.

What’s New

On Thursday, Sept. 12, we offered to schedule more sessions, starting as early as Sept. 17, and proposed 11 additional dates to negotiate the Portland and Bend contracts, plus 28 total dates for other expired contracts and newly organized units.

In response, your union, which represents you and to whom you pay weekly dues, only offered two dates— one in mid-October and November 12—to discuss the expired contracts. Is this the representation you want? Are they serious about reaching an agreement that benefits you, or are they playing games?

Why it Matters

We want to put more money in your pocket and continue to fund your healthcare and retirement benefits, while keeping groceries affordable, but the union stands in the way of making progress and getting a good agreement for everyone, including our customers.

Why is the union not eager to get back to the table and bargain these contracts? It causes you and your family more stress and frustration, especially as the holiday season approaches.

Bottom Line

Our last wage proposal was the largest initial investment ever in retail negotiations and included even more money for a peaceful resolution and ratification.  We are committed to continuing to negotiate in good faith and encourage the union to do the same on behalf of you, their members. Our goal remains the same, reaching a good agreement and investing in you, our hardworking associates, with good wages, benefits, and career opportunities. We value your contributions and are focused on rewarding you.

• If you want the union to return to the bargaining table sooner than mid-October, call your union. Tell them they have a job to represent you, get back to the table soon, and bargain a good agreement for everyone.

We will continue to keep you updated on contract negotiations on www.FredMeyerCBA.com. Be sure to connect with your store leader about any questions you may have. You may also send any questions you have to [email protected] and we will be sure to get you the answers you need.  Thank you for continuing to serve our customers and support each other during these uncertain times.