Unionized grocery store workers in Southern California have reached a tentative agreement with several major supermarket chains that include Ralphs, Albertsons, Vons and Pavilions.
The news comes after more than 24 hours straight of negotiations at the bargaining table, trying to prevent a strike by grocery workers.
The tentative agreement includes significant wage increases, guaranteed hours for part time workers, stronger health benefits, improved store safety and a secured pension, according to the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, representing thousands of grocery workers.
“This is a great agreement that will help turn grocery store jobs around and make tangible improvements in our lives,” said Rachel Fournier, a cashier at a Los Angeles Ralphs store and a bargaining committee member. “We could not have achieved this deal without the support of the community and the energy and engagement of all our members who were determined to have their hard work and essential labor valued.”
