Over 10,000 union workers at over 100 Safeway grocery stores in the greater D.C. area are likely to strike, according to a union spokesperson, since an agreement with management is not expected before the March 5 deadline.
The spokesperson for the union, the United Food and Commercial Workers 400, said that, at the March 5 meeting, the members are likely to reject the offer from Safeway and will then vote on whether or not to strike.
According to the union’s website, Safeway’s offer included cuts to future pension benefits, cuts to healthcare while increasing premiums, and a three-year freeze on minimum wage hires.
“We cannot recommend this proposal for ratification. Our hard work has made Safeway one of the top grocery chains in the region and we have earned a better deal,” the union said. “We are recommending Safeway members vote to reject the company’s offer and authorize a strike at their stores if the company’s offer has not improved.”
Safeway did not respond to a request for comment.
The union also represents Giant workers, and it reached a tentative agreement with the management at the grocery store. However, Giant workers could join the Safeway picket line if a strike occurs.
“If Safeway workers go on strike, we know we can count on our members at Giant to have their backs. We will share ways you can take action to support them. Together, we will stand united and we will win the fair contract we have earned,” the union said.
