FM Personal Shopper Update - Union Proposes Return to 6 Tote Trollies and Fred Meyer’s Answers Raise More Questions
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On May 5 we met with Fred Meyer reps to discuss the extension of the shopping carts.
We proposed that FM go back to 6 totes per trolly to make sure workers are able to handle the trollies safely. Fred Meyer is considering our proposal, and we expect them to get back to us at our next bargaining session on May 19.
They did provide answers to questions from our previous meeting; but those answers only raised more questions, and we have serious concerns as to the accuracy of some of the responses. Especially the estimated weight of the totes and trollies, which seemed low at best.
Over the past month we have heard directly from personal shoppers about injuries sustained on the job because of the weight of the extended trollies and want to get more specific examples of these problems. Members have sent in pictures of heavy, overstuffed totes, broken carts, and accounts of the injuries, aches, pains, and accidents involving these expanded trollies. While Fred Meyer has said that “anecdotally” they have heard no complaints.
We need to show Fred Meyer that our safety is important, that our customers’ safety is important and that the new trollies are needlessly dangerous.
Take action by sharing your story, concerns and evidence about safety concerns the new trollies have created at safetyreport@ufcw21.org or contact your union representative or shop steward!
“Fred Meyer’s response to our questions doesn’t fit with reality. The larger trolleys are too heavy and unsafe. Our members are getting hurt. It is time for Fred Meyer to take the matter seriously.”
—Maggie Breshears, Personal Shopper at Fred Meyer Greenwood.
Don’t forget our grocery bargain is next year, Fred Meyer workers are signing Strike Pledge Cards to let Kroger know we are serious about getting a fair contract!
