Company, Union Resume Talks on Contracts for Tacoma Meat and Grocery Clerks

This week, the Company and Union bargaining committees resumed negotiations towards grocery and meat contracts for our associates in the Tacoma area.

Tentative Agreements Reached – During this week’s bargaining session, the Company and Union reached agreements on non-economic language items.

Wage Proposal – The Company’s wage offer proposed increasing the top-rate Journeyperson by 8.28% over the life of the agreements as follows:

1st Sunday after Ratification: +$1.00/hr
May 3, 2026: +$0.50/hr
May 2, 2027: +$0.50/hr

Our latest pass across the table included our cut produce proposal.

Third-Party Vendor Cut Produce Proposal: Using a third-party vendor to provide fresh cut fruit and vegetables in store is a strategic step forward by delivering on freshness, quality, and food safety—ultimately driving stronger sales and customer satisfaction.

Key Proposal Benefits:

• Peak Freshness: Ensures fruit is used at its peak of ripeness and quality.
• Immediate Sales Impact: Anticipated increase in store sales, leading to an increase in staffing hours.
• Maintains Bargaining Unit Work: Clear focus on maintaining existing bargaining unit work.
• Operational Efficiency: Reduces shrink and enhances overall store profitability.
• Customer Experience: Expected to result in higher customer satisfaction scores.

We are confident this initiative will provide our customers with excellent service, in-stock high-demand items, and the freshest produce while supporting our team members with increased store sales and hours.

We remain focused on reaching a balanced agreement that supports you and keeps groceries affordable for our communities.

Bargaining Continues – The committees will reconvene next week to continue these meaningful conversations.

Stay informed – Read the latest updates online. Look for Tacoma + Area Labor Bargaining Updates for news about your contract.

If you have questions, ask your store leader or send contract negotiation questions to [email protected].

Thank you for your continued commitment to supporting our customers, communities, and colleagues. Your dedication makes a meaningful difference every day.