Kroger Bargaining update: We refuse to be intimated by bully tactics
/Yesterday, our UFCW 21 bargaining team made cost-saving proposals to Kroger's QFC representatives that we believe would help keep the Capitol Hill and Wedgwood QFC stores stay open.
In a clear attempt to intimidate workers and city governments, Kroger announced it would close these stores at the end of April, the company blamed its decision on increased costs due to the Seattle City Council’s passage of a temporary $4 per hour hazard pay mandate for grocery store workers on the front lines of the pandemic.
“We met with Kroger's QFC representatives today and presented creative cost-saving proposals that we believe would help keep these stores open. We eagerly await Kroger's response and we remain committed to fighting for the pay that essential workers deserve. We refuse to be intimidated by Kroger’s bully tactics” -Our QFC Bargaining Team
Like other large grocery companies, Kroger has profited from the COVID pandemic as consumers shifted to at-home meal preparation. In 2020, Kroger’s profits increased 53% to $2.74 Billion, and the company funneled $1.9 Billion to investors through dividends and stock buybacks.
UFCW 21 members have been taking action to fight back against Kroger’s bullying by continuing to push Hazard Pay ordinances across the state, speaking out in the media, sitting down with the employer to bargain over the store closures and gearing up for the start of Grocery Store Bargaining in 2022.
Join hundreds of community members that are standing up to Kroger and QFC's bullying - Sign the Petition!>>
Or Text “NOBULLY” to 52886
RSVP to upcoming Grocery Store CAT (Contract Action Team) meetings>>
OUR QFC BARGAINING TEAM
Sam Dancy, QFC Westwood Village
Amy Dayley Angell, QFC Ballard
Robin Hillistad, QFC Uptown
Jeff Alexander, QFC Wedgwood
Stefanie Cook, QFC Capitol Hill
Faye Guenther, President UFCW 21
Joe Mizrahi, Secretary Treasurer UFCW 21
Jim McGuinness, Attorney