July 2008 - TIGARD, OR – On July 29, 2008, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, Local 555 filed an Unfair Labor Practice Charge against Fred Meyer (owned by the Kroger Co.) for failing to bargain in good faith.

Last November the non-food employees at The Dalles Fred Meyer voted overwhelmingly to be represented by UFCW Local 555. The charge claims “The Employer is not bargaining in good faith based on taking [nearly] 6 months to get to the [bargaining] table after the election. Also, on a number of items that the Union has presented at the table, the Employer has just said no to everything and will not discuss the issues.”

Some of the key issues Fred Meyer is failing to address are; seniority and full-time employment, quality and affordable health care, and stable and safe money for retirement (pension.) Non-food employees are suffering--like Kellie Archer, a full-time Fred Meyer worker, who can’t afford medical coverage for her and her family.

“The Company is showing us, the employees, a complete lack of respect,” said Kellie. “We have said we want representation, we want guaranteed wages, real benefits, and to be able to take care of our families. It is time Fred Meyer starts bargaining in good faith with us. It is time for us to get a contract.”

UFCW Local 555 will be holding a community rally in front of the store August 5, 2008. For more information visit www.groceryworkersunited555.org or contact Ric Ball, Collective Bargaining Director, to schedule an interview.