Statement by United Food and Commercial Workers International Union on Contract Ratification Votes by Colorado Local 7 Members

Fifty-two percent of Local 7 members working at Safeway, King Soopers, and City Market supermarkets participated in the contract ratification vote. Of the members who voted, those that work at Colorado’s Kroger-owned King Soopers and City Market stores approved a 52-month labor agreement with the grocer. Nearly 66 percent of those who voted cast ballots in favor of ratifying the settlement that includes pay increases, a ratification bonus, measures to preserve worker pensions, and affordable health care.

Local 7 members who voted at Safeway voted by nearly 63 percent to reject the contract offer.

The negotiating process has been long, difficult and, often, frustrating for Local 7 members. It has been complicated by the worst economic recession in several decades.

The UFCW International Union is committed to working cooperatively with Local 7 to explore all options to reach the best outcome for UFCW Safeway members and all Local 7 members.