Negotiations Take Time

Negotiations are a step-by-step process. We understand that some associates have questions about potential impacts on them and their families. We are here to provide accurate information and support.

Path to an Agreement

• Negotiations involve exchanging ideas, discussing proposals, and resolving disagreements to reach a beneficial agreement for associates, customers, and business viability.
• We’ve had productive discussions with the Union, with bargaining committees set to meet again the week of March 24.

Step 1– Introductions and Opening Proposals

• Bargaining usually begins with introductions and initial contract language proposals.
• Though early in the process, we’ve already exchanged non-economic contract proposals.
• Throughout the process, the Company and Union bargaining committees will indicate what’s most important to them, so they can work through those priorities to reach a tentative agreement that you can review and ratify.

Step 2 – Focusing on the Essentials

Following productive progress on initial proposals, the Company and Union will present their economic proposals on wages and benefits.

Our Goals Remain the Same – The Company’s goals for this negotiation are to reach an agreement that:

• Invests in market-competitive associate wages
• Continues to provide affordable, industry leading healthcare and pension security
• Keeps groceries affordable for our Puget Sound area customers

What’s Next

• We are focused on coming to a peaceful agreement, that puts more money in your paycheck and provides certainty for your future.
• We are committed to good faith bargaining and transparency.

Stay informed – Learn as much as you can about the process and attend your store huddles, so you can make the best decisions for you and your family. To learn more about the negotiations process or for the latest updates, visit this site.

Ask Questions – Use your store leadership team as a resource. Ask them for answers to your important questions. If they don’t know the answer, they will find out and get back to you. You may also email questions about contract negotiations to [email protected].

Thank you for all you continue to do to serve and uplift our customers, communities, and your fellow associates.