Union workers at Kroger stores across Colorado have taken a decisive stand, voting to authorize a strike in response to what they call unfair labor practices. The vote signals growing tensions between employees and management, with key disagreements over wages and retiree healthcare benefits at the center of the dispute.
Workers Demand Fair Treatment
Over the weekend, members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 7 made their voices heard. The results were striking—100% of Kroger meat workers and 97% of retail workers voted in favor of the strike.
The vote came after weeks of negotiations between the union and Kroger’s corporate leadership. Despite offers from the company, employees say the proposed deal falls short of meeting their needs.
What Kroger Offered and Why Workers Rejected It
Kroger’s President, Joe Kelly, stated that the company put forward a package aimed at improving conditions for workers. The offer included:
- Increased hourly wages
- Expanded health insurance benefits
However, UFCW Local 7 President Kim Cordova dismissed the proposal, arguing that it would take $9 million out of workers’ retiree healthcare funds.
Expanding Strike Action Across the State
With the vote secured, Kroger employees in several cities are preparing to walk off the job. Workers in Denver, Boulder, Parker, and Broomfield are set to strike, joining the growing labor movement against the retail giant.
The question remains: will this action extend to Western Colorado? News outlets, including KKCO/KJCT, have reached out to the union for clarification but have yet to receive a response.
No End in Sight Yet
So far, there’s no word on whether negotiations will continue or if Kroger plans to make another offer to prevent the strike. As the situation unfolds, thousands of employees and shoppers alike will be watching closely to see how it impacts operations across the state.