Stop & Shop Negotiations Update 3/30/16

Hello Brother and Sisters,

Today, the five New England locals met at the office of UFCW Local 464A in Little Fall New Jersey, along with the leadership of UFCW’s who represent the workers under the Ahold banners from locals 400, 27, 464A, 1262, 1500, 342, and 338. These are the leaders from locals in New York, New Jersey and as far south as Virginia. Along with these leaders, we were joined by International President Marc Perrone, International Vice President and Director of Region 1 Tom Clarke, Director of Region 2 Al Vincent, International Executive Vice President and Director of Collective Bargaining Kevin Williamson, general counsel for the International Nick Clark.

The purpose of this meeting was to strategize and develop a plan on how we will proceed forward with our bargaining with Stop & Shop. We have received the support of all the locals up and down the east coast who will continue to assist us with whatever we need on a go forward basis.

Local 328 will be holding a rally on Wednesday April 6, at the Stop & Shop on Branch Ave in Providence, RI. All the locals will be sending representatives to this rally in a show of solidarity, and I urge all who are able to attend.

The locals in New York and New Jersey will also be holding rallies as well as leafleting customers to make them aware of what is going on in New England.

Local 464A begins their bargaining with Stop & Shop on April 7, and the leadership has assured us that they will make it very clear that they will not get a deal until they settle the contract with the New England locals.

Tomorrow a representative from the union will be meeting with Stop & Shop in Providence, RI to try to get some of the issues that remain off the table. The issues that still remain on the table are harmful to existing and future employees. We are working to establish less detrimental conditions for both the new hires and those promoted to full-time position

We will keep you updated as to any developments as well as any future dates for bargaining.

All in all, it was a very productive day today, with the assurance from International President Marc Perrone that we have the full backing and support of the International and he will do whatever he needs to do to make sure that we get a good deal.

We ask that you stay tuned to the local’s website and Facebook page for updates and future actions. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your local union representative.

Remember, our unity is our strength and our strength is our unity.

I remain,

Sincerely and fraternally yours,

Timothy Melia