GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – While Kroger-owned stores across parts of Colorado gear up for a strike over unfair labor practices, workers at Grand Junction’s City Market are staying on the sidelines—for now.
The United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7, representing thousands of grocery workers in the state, has filed several complaints against Kroger, accusing the retail giant of unlawful intimidation tactics and mismanaging retiree health care funds. But despite the growing tensions, Grand Junction employees will not be part of Thursday’s planned work stoppage.
Union Says No Vote Held in Grand Junction
Union representatives clarified that Grand Junction workers have yet to hold a formal vote on whether to participate in the strike. Meanwhile, Kroger-owned stores in Denver, Broomfield, Parker, and Boulder are moving forward with walkouts.
A Local 7 spokesperson emphasized that the decision is still in the hands of the workers.
“Our union members in Grand Junction have not had an opportunity to cast their votes on striking. That decision remains theirs to make,” the representative stated.
Allegations Against Kroger: What’s at Stake?
The union’s charges against Kroger include two key allegations:
- Illegally pressuring workers to avoid union actions.
- Redirecting money from retiree health care benefits to fund wage increases.
These claims have fueled frustrations among grocery employees who argue that Kroger’s financial decisions have come at their expense. The company, however, maintains that its compensation package is fair.
Kroger Defends Its Wage and Benefit Plan
Joe Kelley, President of King Soopers, Kroger’s Colorado subsidiary, pushed back against the accusations, arguing that the company’s offer prioritizes workers while keeping grocery prices in check.
“We have a responsibility to our associates and communities to ensure they have access to fresh food and other essentials,” Kelley said. “We stand behind our Last Best and Final Offer – it helps us balance wage investments with keeping groceries affordable, while meaningfully investing in our associates.”
Worker Sentiment: Mixed Reactions in Grand Junction
Some employees in Grand Junction expressed concerns over the strike’s impact, worried that a walkout could mean lost wages without immediate gains. Others are eager to join their colleagues in pushing back against Kroger.
“We support our fellow workers in other cities, but we need more information before making a decision,” said one City Market employee who asked to remain anonymous. “Striking is a big step.”
Another worker voiced skepticism about the company’s stance. “If Kroger really cared about us, they wouldn’t be taking money from retiree benefits to pay for raises. That’s not real investment.”
What Happens Next?
For now, Grand Junction’s grocery workers will continue business as usual while other stores brace for labor action. But with union pressure mounting and allegations still unresolved, the situation remains fluid.
Meanwhile, Kroger and UFCW Local 7 are expected to return to the bargaining table soon. Whether that leads to a resolution—or a broader strike—remains to be seen.
