The food workers’ union representing more than 2,000 workers with Encino-based Gelson’s Markets reached a tentative agreement Wednesday, Aug. 13, on a three-year labor contract at grocery stores throughout Southern California.
Gelson’s becomes the last of five regional supermarket chains to reach a deal with the United Food and Commercial Workers.
Also see: Union, supermarket chains reach tentative labor deal, averting strike
In July, nearly 45,000 grocery workers ratified contracts with Boise, Idaho-based Albertsons Cos., which owns supermarkets under the Vons and Pavilion banners; Cincinnati-based Kroger Cos., which owns Ralphs; and Super A Foods, a family-owned supermarket chain based in Commerce that caters to Latino and Asian shoppers in the Los Angeles area.
Last week, 12,000 workers with San Bernardino-based Stater Bros. Markets reached a tentative agreement and are currently holding contract ratification votes, according to the UFCW on Wednesday.
The UFCW said the new contract with Gelson’s secures higher wages, pension contributions, healthcare improvements, staffing and safety practices.
“This victory was only possible because of our hard work and solidarity with our co-workers, our customers, and our union siblings at Ralphs, Vons, Albertsons, Pavilions, and Stater Bros.,” the union said.
Further details will be shared with union members at Gelson’s 27 stores in upcoming meetings. No date was provided on when union members will vote on the contract.
Ryan Adams, chief executive officer of Gelson’s, was not immediately available for comment.