A Message From President Tim Melia For Local 328 Members Employed at Stop & Shop

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Now that the strike is over and everyone is returning to their jobs I just wanted to take a moment and say “Thank You”!

From the bottom of my heart I am overwhelmed by the show of solidarity that was on display over the last two weeks.  I have been on many picket lines over the past 20 years, but none that compared to what I witnessed.  

During some of the nastiest rain and wind that springtime can bring, lines every day were manned and staffed.  I saw pictures of members huddled together in the rain with smiles and keeping each other’s spirits up.  You folks are just amazing. 

I have heard stories of members who stayed on the lines daily from sun up to sun down making sure their lines had bodies.  I heard stories of parents bringing their kids to the lines, some brought their dogs, while another determined that it was the best time to propose marriage to his girlfriend. 

I have always been proud to serve as an officer of this local, but never as much as after what I have seen the last week and a half. 

Now that this is over we need to move on.  Our focus needs to be getting your stores back in order, bringing back your customers, thanking them for their overwhelming support and getting those cash registers ringing again.  

I am presently in the process of looking for a venue to hold a ratification meeting as soon as possible.  Because of the size of this membership we are limited in where we can hold the meetings.  I will announce the date as soon as I have secured a location.

All during this process I have used the phrase “Our Strength is Our Unity and Our Unity is Our Strength” and from what I saw you heard me.

Thank you once again for your confidence and support during this trying process.  It was knowing that you all had my back that got me through this process. 

With great pride I remain,

Sincerely and fraternally yours,

Timothy Melia

President

UFCW Local 328