Macy’s Workers Ratify Historic Contract

Our Agreement Contains Hard Fought Wins After Historic 9-Day ULP Strike and Consumer Boycott Campaign that followed a historic 3 day ULP strike over Black Friday Weekend.  

Macy’s worker sent a strong message: We are united and fighting for better jobs for all retail workers 

The Newly ratified agreement with Macy’s ends our second ULP strike and consumer boycott campaign. Together, we won the largest ratification bonus in the nation for Macy’s workers. This agreement sets a new gold standard for retail workers across the country, both in the fight and in the outcome. 

Azia Domingo who has worked at Macy’s Southcenter Mall store for 21 years said:  “We’re on our feet for 8, 10, sometimes 12 hours a day making the store and our products shine and helping our customers. Pay is low, and understaffing has left us at higher risk when confronted with health and safety threats. Our union member workers told Macy’s, enough is enough. We were prepared to strike and support a consumer boycott as long as it took to get Macy’s to address our serious concerns. This tentative agreement shows Macy’s management is ready to recognize that we are essential to making Macy’s a profitable business.” 

The agreement approved today by a vote of Macy’s UFCW 3000 members, will provide workers covered by the contract with: 

• The largest ratification bonus in the country, 20% higher than before the strike. 

• Increased safety protections, including the right for workers to bring up safety issues without fear of retaliation, one of the key unfair labor practices that caused workers to strike.  

• A new and improved wage scale for new hires. Increases in minimum wage escalators to .35 for workers after one year and .50 for workers after two years. 

• Protection of a prized worker benefit, Martin Luther King Jr Day flex paid time off for current employees, that Macy’s had threatened to take away. 

Union Reps and Stewards will have copies of the “red-lined” contract in stores and new contract booklets as soon as possible. 

This strike has reset the balance of power between workers and Macy’s. Let’s keep the pressure on by enforcing our contract, getting involved in our safety committees, joining steward trainings, and getting our coworkers and community ready for the next fight! 

Macy's Contract Votes Scheduled! Bargaining team recommends a YES vote

After not one but two powerful strikes in the middle of winter, our union bargaining team has reached a fully recommended tentative agreement with Macy’s that goes a long way toward respecting our work and protecting our wages and benefits. While we didn’t win everything we wanted, we were able to achieve the best Macy’s contract in the nation, with agreement on items that were at the top of our priorities list, including: 

• The largest ratification bonus in the country, 20% higher than where Macy’s offer was pre-strike 

• Protection of the MLK Day paid holiday for all current employees that Macy’s had threatened to take away with no replacement 

• Increased safety protections, including the right for workers to bring up safety issues or call for help without fear of discipline or retaliation 

• Not just protecting but increasing our wage escalators that guarantee wages stay above minimum wage even as it rises to keep up with inflation 

This was a long fight for all of us, and your bargaining team is excited to review the full offer with all members at our vote meetings. The most important thing you can do now is show up to a vote meeting near you so you can get all your questions answered and cast your vote on the contract!

Contract Votes: Monday, January 29, 8AM—11AM & 3PM—6PM

ALDERWOOD: Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle North/Lynnwood Everett, 18200 Alderwood Mall Pkwy, Lynnwood, WA 98037 (Olympic Room) 
SOUTHCENTER: Doubletree Suites by Hilton Hotel, 16500 Southcenter Pkwy, Seattle, WA 98188 (Summit Ballroom) 
BELLINGHAM: Four Points by Sheraton, Mt. Baker Room 714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229 
UFCW 3000 members in good standing are encouraged to attend a meeting, ask questions, and vote on the contract. Contact a Bargaining Team member or your Union Representative for any questions! 
OUR BARGAINING TEAM UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS A YES VOTE!

Macy's Update: Strike Ends, Fully Recommended Tentative Agreement Reached!

Union Siblings,

Your Union Bargaining Team is happy to announce that our STRIKE AGAINST MACY’S IS OVER!

We have reached a Tentative Agreement with Macy’s management for a BEST IN THE NATION union contract, addressing members’ top issues and protecting our rights. The Bargaining Team unanimously recommends a yes vote to ratify this historic contract.

We won a deal like this because UFCW 3000 members took bold action by going on strike! First we struck over the busy Black Friday weekend, forcing Macy’s to slash their holiday shopping hours at the peak of the season and calling attention to the way our work is essential to the company’s success. When that wasn’t enough, union workers at the Alderwood location took further action and went out on strike for the past 9 days in freezing winter weather, vowing to strike for as long as it takes and publicly calling for a Macy’s boycott.

We are ending the strike at Alderwood effective immediately and informing Macy’s of our unconditional offer to return to work beginning Thursday, January 25.

Details will come shortly regarding the ratification votes for the fully recommended agreement. We are working to get the vote documents ready for your review as quickly as possible and members will have the opportunity to review the agreement and get any questions answered before voting.

For Alderwood strikers and those respecting the line: 

• Work with your manager to get back on the schedule. Reach out to your union stewards, Rep, or UFCW 3000 Member Resource Center (1-866-210-3000) if you experience any issues.

• UFCW 3000 staff will still be onsite at Alderwood Macy’s this Friday, January 26, distributing strike benefits to eligible members who have been on strike.

We also want to thank the 20,000+ customers and hundreds if not thousands of union allies and community supporters who stood in solidarity with us, vowing not to cross our picket lines, showing up to march alongside us, and providing a clear message to Macy’s management that our customers and our community value our work. The dignity and respect we get from a fair union contract is hard-won, and we look forward to getting back to what we do best: serving our loyal customers and making Macy’s a great place to shop.

Macy's Strike Update: Workers Continue ULP Strike as Boycott Gains Strength

Macy’s workers, community partners and customers have been joining our picket lines. We plan to maintain our strike and expand our boycott until we win a fair contract. We continue to prepare the Bellingham and Southcenter Mall stores to join the strike, so sign up for your strike shift and keep warm clothes and waterproof shoes in your car.

The Mediator for FMCS has circulated potential bargaining dates for Macy’s and our union to get back to the bargaining table. No date is set at this moment. We remain willing to bargain with Macy’s at any time.

As a reminder, Macy’s most recent “Last Best and Final” offer just isn’t enough: 

• The elimination of our personal day in honor of MLK day, reducing our amount of paid time off and disrespecting an important holiday. (Which they left off their last update, and store managers indicated that MLK was not being taken away. This dishonesty about their own proposal is likely a violation of labor law.)

• Eliminating our hard-won wage scale—and without any guarantee that experienced workers will maintain wages above the applicable minimum wage.

• A rejection of our proposed safety language that would protect workers from discipline if we call mall security or the police in response to a violent situation.

• Just $0.50 per year in General Wage Increases (GWI) to current workers, with lower ratification bonuses than previously offered of $300 for part-time workers and $600 for full-time workers.

• Check out management’s Last Best and Final offer here >>

Macy’s can afford to do better. This offer was made by a company that has recorded more than a billion-dollar annual profit margin, a company made profitable off the work of the people now walking the strike line.

Our rank-and-file worker-led Executive Board approved more comprehensive strike benefits of:

• $500/week for striking members who work 20 hours on the strike line.

• $800/week for striking members who work 32+ hours on the strike line.

• $200/week Respect the Line Benefit for striking members who cannot join their coworkers on the strike line but respect the strike line and do not cross (for a maximum of 4 weeks). 

To receive your strike benefit, sign in and out of your shift on the strike line, or if you are respecting the line, email Strike@UFCW3000.org to notify our union that you will be respecting the line but not walking the line. All members receiving any type of Strike Benefit must have a completed W-9 on file.

• If you haven’t already done so, please sign a W9 here >>

• Check out the Strike FAQ for some basic information >>

• Please share the pledge to boycott with your friends and family >>

See you on the strike line soon, stay warm!

Macy's Workers Continue Strike and Launch Boycott

Despite the cold and rain, Macy’s workers, community partners and customers have been joining our picket lines. More than 20,000 customers have pledged to shop elsewhere while workers are on strike at Macy’s. The strike and boycott will continue to expand until we win a fair contract. 
If you are in the Bellingham or Southcenter Mall locations, sign up for your strike shift and keep warm clothes and water proof shoes in your car as we continue to prepare for your stores to join the strike. 

We have informed Macy’s we are ready and willing to bargain at any time.

As a reminder, Macy’s most recent Last Best and Final offer just isn’t enough: 

• The elimination of our personal day in honor of MLK day, reducing our amount of paid time off and disrespecting an important holiday. (Which they left off their last update and store managers indicated that MLK was not being taken away. We are filing a new Unfair Labor Practice). 

• Eliminating our hard-won wage scale—and eliminating the guarantee that experienced workers will be paid a certain amount above the minimum wage.

• A rejection of our proposed safety language that would protect workers from discipline if we call mall security or the police in response to a violent situation. 

• Just $0.50 per year in General Wage Increases (GWI) to current workers, with low ratification bonuses of $300 for part-time workers and $600 for full-time workers. 

• Check out management’s Last Best and Final offer here >>

This insulting offer was made by a company that has recorded more than a billion-dollar annual profit margin. 

We must continue to prepare to go on strike at the other Macy’s locations, Bellis Fair Mall, Southcenter Mall and the Alderwood and Tukwila Furniture Galleries. Workers could strike any day at any of these locations, joining workers at Alderwood ON STRIKE!
 
In anticipation of a longer strike, our rank-and-file worker-led Executive Board approved more comprehensive strike benefits of:

• $500/week for striking members who work 20 hours on the strike line.

• $800/week for striking members who work 32+ hours on the strike.

• $200/week Respect the Line Benefit for striking members who cannot join their coworkers on the strike line but respect the strike line and do not cross (for a maximum of 4 weeks). 

To receive your strike benefit, sign in and out of your shift on the strike line, or if you are respecting the line, please email Strike@UFCW3000.org to notify our union that you will be respecting the line but not walking the line. All members receiving any type of Strike Benefit must have a completed W9 on file. If you haven’t already done so, please sign a W9 here >>

---

BALLOONS AND BBQ!

Join your coworkers on the Strike Line this Saturday, January 20, 2024 to pass out balloons to customers. There will be BBQ sliders and sides for lunch around 1:30pm.

Check out the Strike FAQ for some basic information >>
 
Please share the pledge to boycott with your friends and family >>

 See you on the strike line soon, stay warm!

Macy's Workers Launch ULP Strike on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Early yesterday morning, Macy’s workers at the Alderwood Mall location began an Unfair Labor Practice strike. Despite frigid temperatures, we took to the picket lines this MLK Day to stand up for ourselves, our colleagues, our families and our customers in the face of management’s blatant disrespect.
 
As you know, we have been in negotiations with Macy’s for close to a year now. Instead of coming to the bargaining table with thoughtful proposals that honor our contribution to this company’s success, Macy’s continues to undermine the process by repeatedly committing unfair labor practices, including bargaining in bad faith, changing working conditions unilaterally, and engaging in direct dealing while misleading workers about the most recent contract offer.
 
As of right now we plan to stay off the job indefinitely, picketing every day during Macy’snormalbusiness hours. We hope Macy’s will come back to the bargaining table to begin working on an agreement that isn’t riddled with takeaways and concessions. Macy’s workers deserve an agreement that protects us when we are at work, respects our time with the company and is something we can be proud of.

Macy’s most recent Last Best and Final offer just isn’t enough, offering:

• The elimination of our personal day in honor of MLK day, reducing our amount of paid time off and disrespecting an important holiday.

• Eliminating our hard-won wage scale—and without any guarantee that experienced workers will be paid above what new hires receive.

• A rejection of our proposed safety language that would protect workers from discipline if we call mall security or the police in response to a violent situation.

• Just $0.50 per year in General Wage Increases (GWI) to current workers, with low ratification bonuses of $300 for part-time workers and $600 for full-time workers.

• Check out management’s Last Best and Final offer here >>

This insulting offer was made by a company that has recorded more than a billion-dollar annual profit margin. A company made profitable off the work of the people now walking the strike line.

We must continue to be prepared to go on strike at the other Macy’s locations, Bellis Fair Mall, Southcenter Mall and the Alderwood and Tukwila Furniture Galleries. Workers could strike any day at any of these locations, joining workers at Alderwood ON STRIKE!
 
In anticipation of a longer strike, our rank-and-file worker-led Executive Board approved more comprehensive strike benefits of:

• $500/week for striking members who work 20 hours on the strike line.

• $800/week for striking members who work 32+ hours on the strike.

• $200/week Respect the Line Benefit for striking members who cannot join their coworkers on the strike line but respect the strike line and do not cross (for a maximum of 4 weeks).

To receive your strike benefit, sign in and out of your shift on the strike line, or if you are respecting the line, please email strike@UFCW3000.org to notify our union that you will be respecting the line but not walking the line.  All members receiving any type of Strike Benefit must have a completed W9 on file. If you haven’t already done so, please sign a W9 here >>

Join our next All Macy’s Member Call this Wednesday, January 17 at 5pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88212637000 to discuss the strike and next steps.

Check out the Strike FAQ for some basic information >>

See you on the strike line soon, stay warm!

Macys: Important Update Meeting Tonight!

Our member led Bargaining Committee had another tough session with the Employer. We want to update all members about this status and discuss next steps. We will be holding a zoom meeting Tonight: Sunday, January 14 at 7pm!

Tonight at 7pm join us by using this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87833799645

Important action: How do YOU feel about Macy’s management trying to take away MLK Day as a holiday?

Record a short video telling us how you feel! It's fast and easy and will help us send a message to Macy's Management >>

Macy's - No Deal—New Date Scheduled

Late into the night on Thursday, January 4, our Union Bargaining Team met with Macy's at the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service's (FMCS) office in downtown Seattle.

We were unable to reach an agreement with management on a new contract, but talks were very productive. The employer finally engaged in serious negotiations, with ideas being exchanged between the parties about what an agreement may look like—marking a departure from their behavior in recent months.

Unfortunately, negotiations hit a pause when key employer stakeholders became unavailable, prompting the parties to end for the day. To keep the momentum toward an agreement going, we have scheduled another bargaining date for next Tuesday, January 9, to continue talks with the employer.

While these developments are encouraging, it's important to understand that there is no guarantee of reaching an agreement next week. A strike may still be necessary to achieve a fair agreement, and we must be prepared for that possibility.

The upcoming Tuesday meeting will determine our next steps: either reaching an agreement and scheduling a ratification vote or, failing to do so, start signing-up for strike schedules.

We will keep everyone informed as this situation unfolds and as bargaining progresses.

Macy's - STRIKE AUTHORIZED (AGAIN)

BARGAINING TEAM: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nicole Hardin.

On December 21, Macy’s workers spoke loud and clear as we voted over 99% to authorize another strike, which is a stronger authorization than our first vote!! Our vote sends a strong message to Macy’s – we are not afraid to show our collective power again!

This happened after our Union Bargaining Team met with management on Monday December 18 and they showed very little movement on the key issues that we’re fighting for. Specifically, parties are still far apart on wages, the employer is still proposing to take away our wage scales and our MLK Day personal day.

However, that is not to say that no progress was made. While the employer only officially made movement on one of our safety proposals, we did have very productive conversations about where the possible deal could be. But until we have formal proposals that address our concerns, we still must be prepared to continue our fight.

As the parties continue to work on an agreement at our January 4 bargaining session, our vote showed Macy’s that we are ready to go out on strike again if they don’t come to terms with our value as workers. The significance of yesterday’s vote cannot be overstated, and the increased authorization strength from our previous vote empowers our Bargaining Team and instills a sense of urgency in Macy's to hopefully reach a resolution soon.

Macy's Bargaining Dates Scheduled

Our Bargaining Team has confirmed November 6 & 7 as the next scheduled bargaining dates with Macy’s, marking our first meeting with the employer since an overwhelming 96% of our workers voted to authorize a unfair labor practice strike.

Initially, Macy’s was hesitant to add additional dates to the calendar. After sharing the results of our vote and proposing our next bargaining date, Macy’s responded they already provided their last best and final offer and have “no further proposals” and alleged that negotiations had reached an impasse.

The threat of an “impasse” is an aggressive step, signaling that the employer believes that talks have broken down, all avenues toward an agreement explored, and both parties are unable to make further moves. If a true impasse has been reached, it would allow Macy’s to implement their last offer without seeking the membership’s vote.

Macy’s response was frustrating, as it implies management’s wish to impose a contract offer that worker resoundingly rejected. Although disappointing, such behavior is expected from an employer who has previously engaged in an unfair labor practice against a Bargaining Team member in an attempt to undermine the bargaining process.

Our Bargaining Team firmly believes that we are far from an impasse as there remains much to discuss. To prove that an impasse has not been reached, our team responded to Macy’s that we:

• Have further room for movement on our proposals.

• Wish to further explore ideas that were discussed in negotiations but not yet fully developed.

• Need additional information from the employer to reevaluate the current status of outstanding proposals.

Macy’s eventually agreed to meet with our team on November 6 & 7, but they continue to assert that they believe the parties are at an impasse. We are concerned that their continued insistence that there is an impasse violates the law and signals they are likely not reviewing our proposals, concessions, and requests for information in a good faith manner.

Our Bargaining Team is fully prepared to engage in good-faith negotiations with the employer on November 6 & 7. Nonetheless, we will continue to prepare for an unfair labor practice strike if Macy’s decides to persist in their unlawful conduct.

PICKET CAPTAIN TRAININGS:

Alderwood: October 18 & 27, 12:30PM – 1:30PM
Elemental Pizza (3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037)

Bellingham: October 19 & 26, 12:30PM – 1:30PM
Bellis Fair Mall Food Court (One Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98226)

Southcenter: October 20 & 25, 12:30PM – 1:30PM
Southcenter Mall Food Court (2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188)

Everyone is encouraged to participate in our upcoming series of Picket Captain training sessions. These sessions will provide you with the skills and knowledge to become a Picket Captain, a vital workplace leader who plays a central role in preparing for and executing a strike.

Macy’s - UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE CHARGE FILED

Macy’s
UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE CHARGE FILED

Our Union Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nicole Hardin.

Last week, an attorney representing UFCW Local 3000 lodged an official complaint, known as an unfair labor practice (ULP) charge, against Macy's with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Our ULP charge asserts that Macy's violated the law by engaging in retaliatory actions and intimidation tactics against Liisa Luick, a dedicated member of our Union Bargaining Team, due to her active involvement in protected union activities. Liisa, who has long served as a Union steward, gained recognition in a 2022 New York Times article addressing issues within the store, participated in UFCW Local 5's negotiations during a potential Macy's strike in San Francisco, and has been a vocal member of our Bargaining Team.

Earlier this year, Liisa was unjustly suspended and did not return for weeks after calling the police for assistance, then subsequently subject to targeted surveillance by store Management. Management said Liisa violated company policy, however, after reviewing the policy, we don’t see where she violated the policy and why Macy's deemed their actions necessary—unless it was in retaliation for her Union involvement.

MACY’S BEHAVIOR HAS BEEN UNACCEPTABLE!

By voting to authorize an unfair labor practice strike, we can send a strong message to Macy's that workers are united in their resolve against Management's unlawful interference with the bargaining process. Please RSVP to the ULP strike authorization vote TODAY! Direct links are listed below in the text.

ULP Strike Authorization Vote: Friday, October 6, 2023

Southcenter: 8AM to 11AM & 2PM to 5PM at DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Southcenter (16500 Southcenter Pkwy, Seattle, WA 98188)
RSVP to attend the Southcenter vote: https://bit.ly/48BvRi4

Alderwood: 8AM to 11AM & 2PM to 5PM at Lynnwood Event Center (3711 196th St SW, Lynnwood, WA 98036)
RSVP to attend the Alderwood vote: https://bit.ly/3LLkhY2

Bellingham: 8AM to 11AM & 2PM to 5PM at Oxford Suites Bellingham (4051 Meridian St, Bellingham, WA 98226)
RSVP to attend the Bellingham vote: https://bit.ly/45fxNdd

Macy’s Update: Time to take it to the streets!

“Macy's has ignored us for too long, but we won't stay silent anymore! It's time to take charge, hit the streets, and make our voices heard loud and clear!” — Azia Domingo, Bargaining Team Member

Our Union Bargaining Team met with Management again July 18 and 19, with Macy’s maintaining their persistent disregard for our concerns.

On the first day, Macy's Management lashed out at our team, complaining that our proposal would mean too many raises for workers and taking issue with our idea to rework the wage scale for better career advancement.

The breaking point came when the Employer's supposal (non-committed proposal) offered a lower wage increase than their previous one. Seeing no progress, our Bargaining Team canceled bargaining on July 20 and instead visited worksites to talk to workers directly and present our strike pledge card to management.

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! We are not going to make any progress unless we take to the streets, therefore, an informational picket has been announced for August 11! Let this be a warning for the employer, our picket will only be a practice for a strike if they fail to offer us a fair contract with a fair wage increase!

In the meantime, we have reached out to a federal mediator to join our table to assist in reaching an agreement. We have scheduled bargaining dates with the mediator on August 1, 14, 24, and 25.

I’LL BE THERE! PICKET ACTION RSVP

bit.ly/macys-info-picket-23 >>

Contact Action Team Meetings:

Southcenter: August 2, 3-4PM - Southcenter Mall Food Court (2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188)

Alderwood: July 31, 3-4PM - Elemental Pizza (3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037)

Bellingham: August 3, 1-2PM – Bellis Fair Mall Food Court (One Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98226)

Macy's - Bargaining Continues

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD AT THE NEXT CONTRACT ACTION TEAM MEETING!

Monday, July 31 @ 3-4PM
Elemental Pizza, 3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037

Wednesday, August 2 @ 3-4PM
Southcenter Mall Food Court, 2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188

Thursday, August 3 @ 1-2PM
Bellis Fair Mall Food Court, One Bellis Fair Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98226

“The hands of time are supposed to move forward, but Macy’s negotiations seem to defy that law as they appear to be spinning in place.” -Nicole Hardin, Bargaining Team Member, Alderwood Mall

Our Union Bargaining Team met with Management again June 27, 28 and July 13, 14.

Over the course of negotiations, Macy's Management has come forward with several concerning proposals. They attempted to replace our attendance language with their "reliability" program, remove our holiday pay language, increase the seasonal hire period, and remove our wage progressions. Additionally, their initial wage proposal was far below our expectations, offering only $0.40 at ratification, $0.35 in the second year, and $0.35 in the final year of the contract.

Alternatively, our Bargaining Team passed proposals to increase the number of paid holidays, implement a higher quality and more affordable Union healthcare plan, raise commission rates, improve deficit wipe-off language, and significant wage increases that recognize the skyrocketing cost of living.

Unfortunately, progress has been slow, and we haven't made substantial headway on most issues. Although we managed to get Macy's to drop their demand for the "reliability" program, they have remained firm on their other proposals, and continuing to offer a wage increase that is far less than we find acceptable. They consistently cite their financial struggles as the reason for their reluctance to meet our demands.

To break the deadlock, we have introduced "supposals" into the negotiation process. These are non-binding documents that allow both parties to share ideas without committing to them. Through this approach, we have explored potential avenues for compromise, such as considering a higher wage increase for long-term Macy's employees and reevaluating the structure of wage progressions.

While the supposal progress has shown some promise, we are still far from reaching an agreement. We believe that now is the time to take a stand and advocate for what is fair and just. Over 300 members (75% of the bargaining unit) have already signed the strike pledge card, showing their willingness to take action for a fair contract.

Negotiations will continue this week, and we hope for a breakthrough. However, if we cannot reach a agreement, we will be left with no choice but to proceed with an informational picket. We firmly believe that our collective strength will lead us to a better outcome.

Stay tuned for our next bargaining update!

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nicole Hardin

Macy’s Retail / Macy’s Furniture Gallery Stand up for liveable wages and benefits

We, the workers at Macy’s, demand that Management agrees to a fair contract that offers:

• Fair wage increases that keep up with skyrocketing inflation,

• High quality affordable healthcare,

• Significant safety improvements for both workers and customers.

I'll Take Action for a Fair Contract!

https://bit.ly/macys23

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick.

Our Union Bargaining Team recently met with Macy's Management from June 13-15 to continue discussions for our upcoming contract.

Throughout the meeting, we emphasized the urgent need for substantial wage increases and other economic benefits to offset inflation and the soaring cost of living. We also highlighted the importance of recognizing the tenure and loyalty of existing employees, especially as new hires are being brought in at higher pay rates than ever before due to the rising minimum wage.

In addition to wage increases, our team expressed an openness to exploring alternative solutions to address the current affordability crisis. This includes seeking more affordable healthcare options, higher commissions, or any other economic benefits that can supplement our wage adjustments. However, Macy's responded by expressing their struggles as a company and repeatedly referred to their poor performance as mentioned in recent news reports. As a result, they have shown very little flexibility in their wage proposal, offering a mere $0.40 raise in the first year and $0.35 raises in the second and third years of our contract.

During negotiations, our Bargaining Team highlighted the significant wage increases won by UFCW Local 3000 grocery store workers, underscoring that Macy's proposal falls far below the new industry standard. Shockingly, the Employer responded by stating that "we are not essential workers" and thus don't deserve comparable wage increases. Such a statement is outrageous and deeply disrespectful!

On a positive note, while little progress has been made on most issues, the Employer has decided to withdraw their proposal to implement the "Reliability" attendance program. This is good news as workers at non-union stores have reported negative experiences with this program. We can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that it will not be implemented in our store.

The lack of productivity and disrespect in our meetings with Macy’s indicates that we must be prepared to take action! Show your support and solidarity by signing the strike pledge card today, sending a clear message against the insulting behavior exhibited by the Employer.

Macy’s Retail / Macy’s Furniture Gallery - Macy’s Initial Economic Proposal is Unacceptable

“Our Union Bargaining Team is disappointed and outraged by the employer’s insulting initial economic proposal, which blatantly disregards the skyrocketing cost of living and the value of long-term employees.”

— Curtisy Bryant

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick.

Our Union Bargaining Team met with the employer on May 31, 2023 to receive their initial economic proposal.

Macy’s initial proposal included:

• An insulting $0.35 wage increase per year

• Elimination of all wage progressions/scales

• Rejection of all the Union’s commission proposals

• Plan to replace our holiday language with the employer’s non-union holiday program

The Employer’s proposal for a lousy $0.35 wage increase is totally unacceptable and insulting. And to make matters worse, they don’t seem to care about our years of service by wanting to scrap wage progressions altogether. It’s a slap in the face to long-term employees who won’t be able to move up the ladder compared to new hires. This is already a big problem, and their proposal would only make it worse, making it clear they don’t value our experience and dedication.

To make matters worse, the Employer intends to replace our holiday language with their non-union program. Under this program, holiday pay (1.5x pay) would only be provided on Thanksgiving and Christmas (one of which we are already been closed), and potentially on “Key Business Days” that will be determined solely by management.

The situation is further exacerbated by the fact that the Employer’s holiday proposal includes loopholes that would possibly allow them to schedule no Key Business Days or even completely eliminate the holiday program. It is worth noting that the employer scheduled four Key Business Days last year, but there is no guarantee that they will continue to do so in the future. Our Union Bargaining Team firmly stands against any language that grants the employer the discretionary power to cease the holiday program at their own whim.

Take action for a fair contract NOW! Sign the strike pledge card today in solidarity against the employer’s insulting initial economic offer.

We, the workers at Macy’s, demand that Management agrees to a fair contract that offers:

• Fair wage increases that keep up with skyrocketing inflation,

• High quality affordable healthcare,

• Significant safety improvements for both workers and customers.

Macy’s Furniture - It’s Time to Take Action

Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtisy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick

Our Union Bargaining Team met with management again on May 11 to continue negotiations for our next contract. After winning stronger safety language earlier in the week, our Bargaining Team decided it was finally time to submit our initial economic proposal.

Workers at the furniture galleries have reported concerns about the effect of minimum wage on sales associates draws, longer operating hours during times when customers are not shopping, and frustration with the current deficit wipe off process.

In response, our Bargaining Team proposed:

New language that establishes a cap on sales associates draw rate, regardless of the actual wage rate.

• ...A significant wage scale revamp for non-sales associates that ensures wages keep up with the cost of living and honors our years of service,

• ...Commission increases to each tier (i.e. standard, premier, elite),

• ...Bimonthly deficit wipe-offs for all sales associates,

• ...and a new high-quality and affordable Union healthcare option.

We know that Macy’s will not give into any of our demands without a serious fight, but we are willing to do what it takes to earn the respect that we deserve from our employer.

Show Macy’s that you are willing to join the fight and do whatever it takes to win a fair contract by SIGNING THE STRIKE PLEDGE CARD!

We, the workers at Macy’s, demand that Management agrees to a fair contract that offers:

• Fair wage increases that keep up with skyrocketing inflation,

• High quality affordable healthcare,

• Significant safety improvements for both workers and customers.

Macy's Furniture Gallery - Bargaining Dates Scheduled

Macy’s
Bargaining Dates Scheduled

Our Union Bargaining Team met with Management last on March 23, more than an entire month ago. We tried to work with the Employer to get dates in April, but they were not quick to respond to our proposed dates until it was too late. Now that we finally have confirmed four bargaining sessions in the month of May with more scheduled in June.

Workers have been ramping up the pressure in the meantime by wearing our “Respect, Protect, Pay” buttons while at work. Wearing your button has shown both customers and Management that we deserve a fair union contract, and this is just the beginning!

Learn more about what you can do to win a fair contract by attending your Contract Action Team Meeting next week:

Southcenter Gallery and Furniture Store
Monday, May 8 @ 10AM—11am
For Zoom meeting details, contact Union Rep Dominick Ojeda @ 206-436-6586

UFCW 3000 Member Story: Liisa Luick

Liisa Luick shop steward and Bargaining Team member from Alderwood Macy’s!

Liisa Luick is a dedicated shop steward from Macy's at the Alderwood Mall where she has worked since 2008. She loves advocating for her coworkers and fellow union members, knows her contract, and makes sure that store management knows it too.

When Macy’s reopened after the COVID-19 lockdown ended, Liisa also stepped up to make sure that safety issues with the ongoing pandemic and short staffing coupled with the ever-increasing problem of unruly customers and organized retail theft were being addressed. She went on to be featured as a spokesperson for her coworkers in the local press and the New York Times to highlight these important safety issues.

Recently she helped organize leaflets at her store in support of members of UFCW Local 5 working at the San Francisco Macy's, who had been negotiating their contract for over 8 months! Liisa also flew to the Bay Area to join UFCW 5 members at the bargaining table in a show of solidarity at what would be the final negotiation session where Local 5 reached a tentative agreement.

Liisa brought her experience back to her coworkers and joined the bargaining committee for the Macy’s contract negotiations that have gotten underway. As a member of the committee, she knows that the Union’s power starts and ends with what members are willing to do to fight for a fair contract. Liisa and all the Macy’s stewards and leaders keep their coworkers organized and out at every action. Way to go Liisa!

Macy’s Mall & Furniture Gallery “Reliability” rears it’s head again!

Macy’s Mall & Furniture Gallery: “Reliability” rears it’s head again!

“We’re disappointed that Macy’s is once again trying to propose the reliability attendance program, something we have rejected on numerous occasions. Furthering our disappointment, the Employer has so far refused to meaningfully engage with any of our proposals, including our safety improvements.” — Nicole Hardin, Alderwood Macy’s

Our Union Bargaining Team: Azia Domingo, Curtesy Bryant, Emily Hunter, Liisa Luick, Nichole Hardin.

Our Union Bargaining Team began contract negotiations with Macy’s shortly after UFCW Local 5 settled their contentious negotiations with the Employer in San Francisco.

Our siblings in California fought hard for their contract after Macy’s played hardball until the Members went on strike during the holiday season. Alderwood Member Lissa Luick joined their table towards the end to show our solidarity and to take what she learned back home as a member of our own Bargaining Team.

Unfortunately, Macy’s has brought their negative attitude to the Puget Sound. Our first few days of negotiations have led to very little progress with the employer unwilling to meaningfully address any of our issues. Initial talks have focused on safety, but the employer has showed little interest in accepting even the very same language they agreed to add to the San Francisco contract!

To make matters worse, Macy’s has once again proposed to implement their terrible “Reliability” attendance plan that the Union has rejected during previous negotiations. Many of us have heard from staff at non-union stores that the ”Reliability” attendance program is terrible. Hard to understand, difficult to track, and far too much power given to Management. Our Bargaining Team has once again rejected the employer’s proposal, opting instead to propose our own improvements to the existing attendance credit system.

We are severely disappointed (but not surprised) by Macy’s behavior. Their unwillingness to work with our team before even getting to the more difficult conversations about wages is not promising. But if it’s a fight they want, it’s a fight we’ll give them!

Attend our upcoming Contract Action Team (CAT) meetings to learn more about negotiations and what you can do to help our Bargaining Team win a fair contract!

Contract Action Team Meetings:

Alderwood: Tuesday, March 28
3PM—4PM Elemental Pizza (3000 184th St SW #948, Lynnwood, WA 98037)

Southcenter: Tuesday, March 28
11AM—2PM Southcenter Mall Food Court (2800 Southcenter Mall, Seattle, WA 98188)

Bellingham: TBD in April

Share Your Story on the Safety Survey!

Our Union Bargaining Team has proposed changes to our contract that address the serious safety issues that we face in the workplace. In order to pressure Macy’s into meaningful change, we are collecting member stories that show the employer the unsafe reality that their workers face every day. Please share your story by following the link to our safety survey. >>

Macy's Furniture Gallery Contract Vote