Southern California grocery conflict rooted in previous strike

[Omaha Steve]

Source: LA Times

Southern California grocery conflict rooted in previous strike
The wage deal of three years ago still rankles workers, and greater competition since then is squeezing the stores.
By Jerry Hirsch, Times Staff Writer
April 23, 2007

Shopper Peter Wormer is baffled. He can't believe that another supermarket strike could be around the corner. He said he stopped shopping at Vons — for good — the last time around.

Longtime Albertsons worker Hugh Evans doesn't get it either. "I don't want a strike," he said. Last time, he said, it cost him $20,000 in savings.

Even Costco executives are shaking their heads at the idea — despite the prospect of more shoppers coming their way. "Incredulous," said company Vice President Bob Nelson.

Southern Californians are holding their breath. They understand why grocery workers want better wages and benefits. And they know the stores are fighting more competitors than ever.


UNION LEADER: “Any strike would be measured in days and not months,” says Greg Conger of UFCW Local 324. “Immediately there would be a desire on both sides to settle quickly.”
(Allen J. Schaben / LAT)

Read more: http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-strike23apr23,1,1954564.story?ctrack=1&cset=true

[goclark]

1. Please don't strike, the last one was long

and difficult for the shoppers too.

[bemildred]

2. I still avoid shopping at those chains. nt