Fred Meyer warehouse workers authorize strike – KIRO 7 News Seattle

Teamsters Local 117 warehouse workers at Fred Meyer voted unanimously on Saturday to approve a strike.

A contract between Fred Meyer and the union expires on Sunday. They didn’t agree on a new one.

This could lead to potential supply chain issues and disruptions in food distribution at 180 grocery stores in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Alaska.

Workers are calling for more safety measures after the pandemic exposed the hazards in the workplace.

“In a word, [the union wants] Respect, ”said Teamster Local 117 treasurer, John Scearcy. “And that in the form of wage increases that are commensurate with the work they do and the services they provide, old-age pensions, healthcare and safety. We have to take security back into our own hands. We relied on this employer to protect ourselves at work, and by and large they failed; they really failed. “

In a statement to KIRO 7, a spokesman for Fred Meyer said:

“Our company will continue to pursue a fair and balanced contract that honors its employees and keeps the company competitive. Voting to approve the strike does not mean that there will be a strike. We do not expect any service interruptions and everything is running as usual in our branches. “

The union said a work stoppage could be called as early as 12:01 p.m. on Monday.

“That would be a big problem for [Fred Meyer]. You shouldn’t let it happen, ”Scearcy continued. “We have churches to serve. We’re an integral part of the food chain, and that didn’t start with the pandemic. We have been indispensable for a long time. We were just recognized during the pandemic … but that recognition has not been reflected in the working conditions and wages and compensation packages that we need. “

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