Safeway workers rally in Pleasant Hill ahead of possible strike

(KRON) — Safeway workers rallied in Pleasant Hill Tuesday ahead of a potentially looming statewide strike. On Friday, members of the grocery workers’ union, UFCW 5, voted 95% yes to authorize an unfair labor practice strike.

The negotiations, which took place on July 8 and July 9, were centered around fair pay, better scheduling, increased retirement savings, and accessible and affordable health care, according to the union. UFCW 5 and other locals 8 and 648 represent around 25,000 Safeway workers.

“After months of bargaining, including two days earlier this week, the company still refuses to agree to a new contract that provides for meaningful wage increases, necessary benefit funding, and improvements to working conditions that our members deserve,” said the union. “Safeway’s ongoing failure to bargain in good faith has compelled the unions to file federal Unfair Labor Practice charges against the company which resulted in the overwhelming strike authorization.”

According to the union, negotiations with Safeway have been going on since March, “but the company has been more focused on cuts than on making progress towards a fair agreement.” Negotiations between the union and Safeway are due to continue this week with the assistance of a federal mediator.

“Safeway workers helped build Safeway into what it is today, and as essential workers you deserve a contract that reflects your contributions,” the union added.

While workers have voted to authorize a strike and the union calls it a “viable option,” UFCW 5 is advising Safeway workers to continue reporting to work until notified by a union rep that a strike has begun.