CALIFORNIA – The United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) announced June 11 that members authorized a strike against Kroger and Albertsons stores across Southern California.

Over 45,000 UFCW grocery members across Southern California will strike, however a date has not been set as the final bargaining sessions are scheduled for June 25–27.

UFCW Local 15 said the vote authorizing the strike comes after months of frustration at the bargaining table. 

“Instead of engaging in meaningful negotiations, Kroger and Albertsons have responded with unfair labor practices—including surveillance, intimidation, and retaliation against members like you who are standing up and speaking out,” UFCW Local 15 said in a statement.

Bargaining Committee has met with the companies 18 times

According to Local 15, the Grocery Workers Rising Bargaining Committee has met with the companies 18 times since February.

The committee said they’ve made every effort to move the process forward, but the companies continue to delay and avoid serious conversations about staffing, wages, and equity.

“I’ve been in every bargaining session,” said Ralphs worker and bargaining team member Cammy Fulton.

Kroger is the parent company for Ralphs.

Fulton goes on to say that the companies aren’t taking them seriously, but the vote proves that they’re serious—and not backing down.

‘Be prepared to go out’

Local 15 told union members that they’re not on strike but to be prepared to go out if the bargaining committee decides it is time.