Two weeks ago, we were back at the bargaining table with UFCW 401 ready to advance negotiations. Unfortunately, UFCW 401 has not shown any interest in gaining momentum and negotiations did not progress.
Our focus at the table
We remain committed to securing a strong future for our teams and the company. To do that, we are focused on the future of Safeway and meeting customer preferences by introducing FreshCo to the Alberta market.
How we are investing in Safeway
With the help of our hardworking Safeway teammates, we are working hard to improve Safeway store performance. We are making investments to the Safeway brand, including a newly announced partnership with the Canadian Football League. We are investing in store upgrades and remodels. We are driving great results through our Show and Sell programs, Category Resets and local product offering. There is much more to come on these plans and we look forward to working alongside all of you to win at Safeway.
Why we are bringing FreshCo to Alberta
There are some markets, where our Safeway stores continue to struggle. These locations aren’t struggling because our teams aren’t working hard, they’re struggling because the communities they are operating in are shopping discount grocers, not full-service stores. No matter how hard we work, some of our locations are in the wrong markets. We’re asking your Union to be a part of these conversations and the future of FreshCo in Alberta. Unfortunately, your Union is refusing to participate in these discussions. This stall tactic is holding up our progress at the table. The Company is at the table committed to move forward. Our plans to bring FreshCo to Alberta will continue to progress.
The Union is focused on dividing us when we need to work together
Progress at the table has been slow and we have only discussed less than 20 of 150 proposals. There is much more for us to discuss in negotiations and we hope the Union will come to the table prepared to advance negotiations.
We are very thankful for your hard work and patience through these negotiations and will continue to keep you up-to-date. If you have any questions, please contact your Store Manager and we will work hard to answer them quickly.
Stay up-to-date on Safeway Talks.
