King Soopers grocery store workers wave at passing cars as they strike at more than 70 stores across the Denver metro area on January 12, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images/Getty Images
Workers at 77 King Soopers stores across the Denver metro area began a strike Thursday, following the expiration of their contract and months of failed negotiations with the company.
About 10,000 members of UFCW Local 7 are participating in the strike, which focuses on allegations of “union-busting tactics” by the grocery chain.
The union claims King Soopers hired temporary workers to replace strikers, a move they consider illegal and an attempt to weaken the union’s bargaining power.
According to USA Today, King Soopers announced plans to hire temporary workers on January 31, acknowledging the strike would last for two weeks.
Chris Lacey, a service manager and negotiation committee member, expressed frustration over the company’s unfair labor practices. He emphasized the strike is about ensuring better stores for both customers and employees. “We want them to come back to the table and realistically hear our staffing concerns,” Lacey stated.
The union alleges that during contract talks, King Soopers interrogated union members, surveilled them, and threatened disciplinary actions for wearing union gear.
Additionally, the company allegedly planned to use designated for retirees to pay for wage increases for current employees.
Union members are demanding better wages, improved staffing, and protections against benefit cuts.
King Soopers President Calls Union Demands “Unreasonable”
King Soopers president, Joe Kelley, dismissed the union’s demands as “unreasonable.” He criticized the union for creating uncertainty and forcing customers to seek groceries elsewhere.
“It is time to put aside their unreasonable demands and work towards a fair resolution,” Kelley said in a statement.
Staffing issues have been a significant point of contention. Workers claim that understaffing has made stores unsafe.
The company has reportedly cut store work hours by 18% since 2020, leading to concerns over worker safety and customer service.
This strike is the second major walkout by King Soopers workers in recent years. Three years ago, 8,000 workers went on strike, demanding higher wages, WSWS said.
Although the strike was called off early, the issues have resurfaced, prompting this latest round of action.
With the strike ongoing, King Soopers stores are operating under reduced hours, opening from 7 am to 8 pm daily. The UFCW has warned that the strike could expand to more locations if no resolution is reached.