Tigard, Oregon – After thousands of Fred Meyer grocery and meat department workers held an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike, they returned to work as of 8:00 AM on Tuesday, September 3.
The striking workers made Fred Meyer aware of how serious they are about Fred Meyer following Federal Labor Law and respecting worker rights under the National Labor Relations Act.
“This was a win for our membership,” said Miles Eshaia, Communications Coordinator for UFCW Local 555. “Fred Meyer was held accountable, and the company now understands just how many of its workers are committed to change. This strike demonstrated the incredible strength of our union members who stood together for better treatment in the workplace. We’re returning to the table next week. We demand the employer take these negotiations seriously and follow Federal Labor Law.”
Additionally, after the ULP strike began, it came to light in Krogers FTC trial that the company engaged in widespread price gouging on everyday essentials like milk and eggs.
While the workers have returned to their jobs, the battle for a fair contract is ongoing. UFCW Local 555 remains dedicated to securing a contract that ensures fair wages, secures health & welfare, and strengthens retirement benefits for all workers. UFCW 555 is now calling on the community to support workers by not shopping at Fred Meyer until a fair agreement is reached and Fred Meyer’s admitted price gouging has stopped.
“The fight for a fair contract is not over,” said Dan Clay, President of UFCW Local 555. “The community stood with us through the ULP strike and we know they will do the same until Fred Meyer delivers a contract that lets its employees thrive in the cities where they work. The ULP strike was just the beginning of our members’ campaign for a better life. It’s our expectation that Fred Meyer must work within the law, take care of their employees, and stop price gouging our communities.”
Negotiations with Fred Meyer are ongoing and will continue on September 11 and 12.