Franz Outlet Stores - Tentative Agreement Reached—Vote Scheduled!

After months of negotiations, including three Union’s unanimously voting to authorize a strike—UFCW 3000, 367 and Teamsters 38—we have reached a tentative agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement with Franz!

Our new contract includes significant increases in our wages as well as over a 20% increase in our pension contributions by the end of the contract. More details will be shared in the coming days as Union Representative Tae Abraham reaches out ahead of the vote.

Everyone will also be provided with a document outlining all the changes as well as a full copy of the proposed contract while voting on Tuesday, May 14.

Franz Contract Ratification Vote

Tuesday, May 14 from 6:00 am – 5:00 pm

Online through “Simply Voting”

We will be voting online via “SimplyVoting” on Tuesday, May 14 from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm. You will be receiving an email from UFCW 3000 via “SimplyVoting” with your unique login information. Your Union Representative will also be making visits to the workplace to provide additional information regarding the vote.

In order to vote, everyone needs to make sure their personal email is up to date in our records. If you did not receive this announcement via email, please visit our website and update your information. If you do not receive an email to vote, then please reach out to Union Representative Tae Abraham (206) 436-6631 to provide an updated email address.

Grocery East Cheney Contract Vote Set!

This Tentative Agreement is fully recommended by the Grocery Store Bargaining team!

After nearly six months of bargaining with Albertson/Safeway and Kroger for a new contract that respects our work, increases our wages, and improves our retirement and healthcare, we are holding a contract vote! This notice serves to inform all members that a critical membership meeting will be held on May 13, 2024, in the Safeway breakroom, 2710 1st St, Cheney, WA 99004.We will be conducting a vote on the fully recommended settlement presented by the Employer Monday, May 13. 

The bargaining committee will present the tentative agreement received from the Employer. Members will have the opportunity to discuss the terms and implications of the offer before voting on the fully recommended settlement.

Contract Vote: May 13 from 9am—12pm and 3pm—6pm 

Any member covered under the Cheney Safeway Meat and Cheney Safeway Grocery Contracts who are in good standing will be able to vote in the Safeway breakroom, 2710 1st St, Cheney, WA 99004, from 9am-12pm or from 3pm-6pm on May 13, 2024. 

For questions, please contact your Union Representative, bargaining committee members, and stewards for updates. If you are unable to connect with your union rep, steward or bargaining committee member you may call the MRC at 1-866-210-3000 for more information. 
All members in the Cheney Safeway Meat and Cheney Safeway Grocery Contracts are encouraged to be present for this important vote.

Spokane Grocery store workers overwhelmingly ratify a new three year contract! 

This is our first union negotiations since we became UFCW 3000 and our combined strength has helped us win a contract with record wages and major contract improvements. In the midst of a proposed grocery mega-merger, we’ve sent a clear message —We have power in our communities, we have a voice in our workplace, and we have a strong new contract that will be the backbone for our future. 

We did this together, by standing strong and showing up for each other and our communities.  

The many improvements in the ratified contract include: 

  • Strongest journey wage increases in any Spokane Grocery Store negotiation! We increased our Journey wages by $4.00 or more.

  • Big retro checks for journey going back to contract expirations January 20, 2024.

  • Won an “All Purpose Clerk” scale with historic pay raises for many departments —for some over 25% wage increase during the course of this contract.

  • More than quadrupling our wage escalators —that means strong wage increases throughout the pay scale when minimum wage goes up and when workers are moving through the apprentice rates. 

  • Healthcare with benefit improvements with NO increases to healthcare premiums or deductibles. Healthcare eligibility will now be based on all compensable hours. 

  • Major improvements to our vacation banks that will ensure that we get vacation based off of hours worked. 

  • Automatic pension funding increases that go up every time wages increase. 

  • Dedicated money to fund training and workforce development to ensure that we get the training we need to do our jobs and prepare for the future of the industry. 

  • Stronger safety language to address top issues we face in our stores. 

“This is the most money I thought I'd ever see coming out of Kroger. The pressure we applied across all our stores was amazing! I am feeling amazed!” -Katrina Keffer, Fred Meyer 

“I am really excited for my co-workers who worked for years in the Deli, my co-workers will get wage increases that they deserve. This will help make sure we can keep people here in the store.” -Jeff Yergens, Safeway 

Grocery East Tentative Agreement Reached!

Member Bargaining Committee recommends a YES vote! 

After months of strike preparation, store actions, and long negotiation sessions, our member bargaining committee reached a fully recommended tentative agreement with Safeway/Albertsons and Kroger on a new contract. This agreement has dramatic gains for Eastern Washington, Oregon, and historic gains for unionized grocery stores in Idaho.

“This is the most money I thought I'd ever see coming out of Kroger. The pressure we applied across all our stores was amazing! I am feeling amazed!” - Katriana Keffer, Fred Meyer

The agreement includes: 

  • Higher wages that will address pay equity across departments 

  • Rights that will ensure a safer store 

  • Pension improvements

  • ​Investments in workforce development and training

  • And more!

This tentative agreement is not final until we vote on it. Full details of the agreement will be available at the contract vote Thursday, May 2 where members of the bargaining committee will be available to help answer questions and walk us through the agreement. 

Contract Votes for Spokane Albertsons Meat, Spokane Albertsons Grocery, Spokane Safeway Meat, Spokane Safeway Grocery, Spokane Fred Meyer Meat, Spokane Fred Meyer Grocery, Spokane Fred Meyer CCK: Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 9am-12pm and 3pm-7pm at the Spokane DoubleTree Hotel and Conference Center, 322 N Spokane Falls Ct, Spokane WA 99201 - All other grocery contracts will vote at a later date.

“I feel really, really good about what we are finally getting from these employers! We broke through some big barriers in this agreement. The gains to our retirement plan felt like we were finally being listened to -we can actually retire!” -Frankie Roesser Safeway

“It’s not what everybody wants, it’s not the moon but I am really excited for my coworkers who worked for year in the Deli, my coworkers will get wage increases that they deserve. Hopefully this will help make sure we can keep people here in the store.” -Jeff Yergens, Safeway


PCC Labor/Management Committee candidate Online vote!

Online vote: May 8 at 6:00am — May 9 at 6:00pm

The nominees are in and they are counting on you to get involved and decide who will represent PCC workers and our union by voting for the candidates you want to represent you on the Labor/Management Committee (LMC). The purpose of the LMC will be to study and make recommendations to the PCC Board of Trustees or PCC’s Leadership Team regarding:

Per our contract, our union can nominate ten candidates to send to the PCC Governance & Membership Committee (GMC) where they will, by a simple majority vote of the GMC, select the final five workers that will serve on the LMC.

Voting will be conducted via secure online vote to decide the ten nominees that will be recommended to PCC’s GMC. We are excited to announce the candidates that are running for the chance to participate and represent their coworkers!

Meet the nominees ▸

Kelly Campbell, View Ridge PCC, Front End

I’m Kelly, and I am eager to bring my unique blend of leadership, advocacy, and community engagement to the Labor Management Committee. My journey in advocacy began when I made history as the first athlete appointed Board Chair for Special Olympics Washington. This role not only honed my leadership skills but also deepened my commitment to driving positive change and advancing inclusion. With over three decades of experience as a Special Olympics athlete and more than five years serving on the board of directors, I’ve gained invaluable insights into the power of inclusion and community engagement. My involvement extends beyond Washington, as I actively contribute to Special Olympics committees at national and international levels, amplifying the voices of athletes and advocating for diversity and equity. One of my proudest achievements is leading initiatives like the Building Bridges program, which brought Special Olympics to tribal communities for the first time, addressing the unique needs of BIPOC individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I am dedicated to fostering understanding and respect across all communities, tirelessly working to ensure access and opportunities for all. Outside of my advocacy work, I’m a dedicated team player, competing in various sports from softball to swimming. I’ve also had the honor of representing our community on Capitol Hill, advocating for funding to support programs like Special Olympics. In my role at PCC Community Markets for over two decades, I’ve learned the importance of community engagement and collaboration. Now, I’m excited to bring my experience and passion for inclusion to the Labor Management Committee, where I hope to continue driving positive change and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the committee’s efforts.

Oscar Cea-Figueroa, Redmond PCC, Deli

Hello, my name is Oscar, and I am quite pleased to have been nominated by my peers to run for a position on the LMC! I am learning of all the benefits this committee will bring, being the first of its kind for our company! I’m very happy to be able to represent my coworkers at a level where we can not only present barriers, issues and concerns but also provide problem solving opportunities and trouble shooting with all the people we need to discuss these matters with. In the last few years, while working for this company, I’ve seen some changes. One of the reasons I came to work for PCC was the co op values. It’s very important to me that I continue to work with an employer who has similar interests. Since our contract negotiations earlier this year, I have been gaining so much understanding of the importance of partnership. Participating in the informational pickets helped me see the bigger picture, standing together is where the power is! There is so much information to read in our world, so much to learn! I really enjoy doing the work in the deli, communicating, and working with my deli team. I’m happy to know that I have the chance to be a part of the committee that will bring change that will benefit all.

William Chiang, Bothell PCC, Deli

I’ve been with PCC for 7 years, came from restaurant background in cooking.  Have been a deli cook, clerk, and cheese clerk.

Emily Dawson, West Seattle PCC, Produce

I'm thrilled to have the chance to join the Labor Management Committee. I'm eager to dive into understanding PCC's financial model and how business decisions are made. My aim is to promote better communication and understanding between workers and non-union management, bridging that gap and fostering a more harmonious relationship between office staff and in-store workers, while focusing on suggesting workplace enhancements that will improve the work environment. Additionally, having talked with many of our coworkers from diverse ethnic backgrounds, I am confident in my ability to represent all concerns within PCC. With your support, I'm excited to make a meaningful impact and enhance our experience here at PCC. Thank you for considering me for this role.

Bert DeCoy, Redmond PCC, Deli

I have been with the co-op for 11 years. The whole time at Redmond, in the deli. Roughly a year of counter (opening, closing, and mid shifts), then the last decade as a cook and hotbar runner. During my time, I have always tried to provide the best experience for our members whether it's through personable and knowledgeable service on counter, answering a many customer questions as i can, or making food whose quality is worth the price tag. I believe firmly in working as a team, in communication, and the need to be open... even if it means having difficult conversations. These were the values handed down to me by those who trained me and I try my best to pass them along to those who have come after. I talk with our members on a daily basis, about the things they love, the things they miss or honestly the things they really don't care for in recent years. I extend this same availability to my coworkers who know I am someone they can come to to express concerns, field questions from customers, or generally expand their knowledge of what we do. One of my greatest strengths is my connection to my team mates, and to the needs of our members. I believe strongly in the need for everyone's shared participation for this co-op to do its best; from members, to employee members, to office staff, if every aspect is collaborating then I think we can maintain that spark that made us special for over 6 decades. Thank you for your time.

Nellie Demeerleer, Ballard PCC, Front End

I have 3 years experience as a disability advocate, and  when I'm passionate about something, like making sure PCC employees, especially those like me, who work on the front lines and represent the company get the respect, safety in there stores, involvement in company decisions, and pay that we deserve, I will speak for those who may not have a voice, and make sure that everyone is represented equally and fairly, no matter their background.

Cina Ebrahimi, View Ridge PCC, Grocery

I believe Cina will be able to represent the workers interest accurately. He has spent a good deal of time and effort over the last year to interface not only with workers at view ridge but across PCC to better understand the needs of PCC Workers as a whole. He participated as a committee member in the recent contract negotiation and is a shop steward for the view ridge store. Cina is familiar with the cooperative model and has experience from work in finance that make him uniquely prepared for a position in the Labor Management Committee.

Nich Fallon, Issaquah PCC, Produce

Prior to working at PCC I managed a small independent grocery store on top of running the produce department. That role exposed me to the different perspectives amongst the management, employee, and customer relationships. It helped me see extra problems but also additional opportunities to solve those problems. I am passionate about finding ways to improve the working and shopping environment better for everyone. I think being on the LMC would be a great outlet for me and that I would be a great contributor to the LMC. I want to see the LMC become a permanent fixture and stepping stone for more labor representation on the PCC board.

Quil Freitas, West Seattle PCC, Clerk

Hi, Quil Freitas here, produce clerk at West Seattle for over two years. I was involved with negotiations and kept as close an eye on the finances as possible. I advocated for a "no" vote against this current contract. I believe information workers have received has not been sufficient. I see the Labor Management Committee as a flawed but continuing effort to win a fair portion of revenues for workers to have living wages.

Miles Gensoli, PCC Fremont, Produce

Miles Gensoli, 47yrs old. My wife Karen and I have been married for 13yrs. We have 2 children Tristan is 12 and Kiara 8. Lived here in the PNW since I was  8 years old when my family migrated from the Philippines. My favorite pass time is spending time with the family and anything outdoors( hiking, camping, gardening, jet skiing). All of my work experience have been in grocery retail. Been a member of UFCW since 1994, 6 years at PCC. I am the Produce Coordinator at the Fremont Location.

Thnley Gyatso, PCC Fremont, Produce

I believe in that I fit for the Pcc Labor Management committee. I want workers treat well and pay well and appreciate their any levels of contributions Pcc recognizes. All works voice most heard.

Marlin Hathaway, Greenlake Village PCC, Beer and Wine

Marlin Hathaway is the Beer Wine Spirits Specialist at PCC Greenlake Village and has worked for PCC for almost 3 years. He is a UFCW3000 Union Shop Steward and a founding member of PCC Workers United. Marlin is a steadfast advocate for living wages for all PCC workers, personally organizing and reaching out to workers in all of PCC’s stores in the struggle for the retention of Hazard Pay, and its expansion for all PCC workers. He was a leader in the campaign for One Wage Scale for all PCC Workers in the region, a base wage of $25 per hour, $30 for Journey, and a 3-year path to Journey. As a member of the Bargaining team this last contract cycle, Marlin fought hard for a base wage of $25 per hour for all PCC workers, a path to Journey in 3 years, and $30 per hour for Journey folks, and was an initiator of the idea of creating the LMC. Marlin has been a restaurant, grocery, and hospitality worker his entire life, from age 15 to 60. He has tenacity and will fight tooth and nail to uphold the needs of our workforce.

Kerry Hudson, Burien PCC, Front End

Hi my name is Kerry, I'm a cashier at Burien. Over the course of 9 years at PCC, I've worked in just about every department. I understand the experience and needs of roles throughout the store. I believe that there are opertunities throughout the co-op to trim the budget without punishing staff, making our co-op better for staff and the community. I think that as we've grown we have lost some of our co-op values and management refuses to see any solution other than cutting labor hours. It's time that we look at the whole picture and act more like a co-op in all facets.

Chloe Jett, Bellevue PCC, Beer and Wine

I come from North Carolina, a state which ranks 49th in the country for worker’s rights. I’ve seen firsthand what can happen when unions aren’t given the necessary power and respect they deserve. As an LMC member, I would see to it that worker’s rights are observed to make PCC an ideal place for labor.

Jackson Jones, Kirkland PCC, Meat Dept.

I have worked at several premium grocery stores and have gained a unique and solid understanding of the strategies that are helpful in navigating the relationship between corporate and worker interests. My experience has allowed me to gain respect for different cultures and how they do things, allowing me to find creative solutions in a variety of ways. I am dedicated to making our work environment safer through my role on the safety committee. My goal in nominating myself for the LMC is to improve employee’s knowledge, which will invite longevity & reduce turnover of the employees as well as foster a direct and open dialogue with leadership team.

Kris Jamison, Kirkland PCC, Deli

I've been with UFCW for over ten years and have always held a sharp interest in contract negotiations and try to stay as involved as possible. Info pickets, zoom meetings, CAT meetings, you name it. And because of my friendly, outgoing nature, people have always naturally gravitated toward me with questions or comments about the Union and the contract. I've been approached several times about becoming a Shop Steward as well. The LMC however appears to be a very unique opportunity, and one that instantly called to me once I read how it will function. So, I'm very excited to play a vital role in shaping the next contract and influence how my work environment is structured. Thank you for your consideration.

Scott Jue , Central District PCC, Receiver

I worked for Central District PCC as the Receiver for the last 4 years. I previously worked for Safeway for 28 years with 8 years as a Safeway Assistant Store Director. I have experience in sales projection, scheduling and order writing, expense control, ad planning, merchandising, inventory and shrink control, hiring, employee evaluations and terminations. I served on the Safeway Diversity Board and was a Safeway Division Safety Supervisor assisting 37 stores in 3 districts. I have a BA from Seattle University in business management and an MBA from the University of Washington. I am also a United States Marine and served with the Washington Army National Guard. I deployed to Iraq (08-09) and conducted combat security operations.  My outside interests include Cross Fit, cooking and spending time with my 2 black labrador dogs. As my store’s Receiver I work and interact with all departments and see the success, problems, opportunities, frustrations that occur daily. I believe I can provide a voice in making PCC a more profitable, adaptable, efficient, diverse and safe workplace. I believe in the 80/20 rule. Spend 80% of the time preventing, anticipating and solving problems and 20% of the time reacting to problems we cannot control.  I can reduce the gap between PCC Corporate and retail front line employees. I ask for the opportunity to assist in making PCC profitable again as we look to our next contract. 

Chris Maraslo, PCC Ballard, Grocery

PCC employee since 2019 and has worked through the pandemic. Understands the importance of proper support and care at the workplace. Chris is by far the fiercest advocate for workers' power that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. If he were elected to the committee, I have no doubt at all that he would stand for the workers and advance our cause without fail.

Scott Norman, West Seattle PCC, Receiver

I am a true Seattlite. Born and raised in Ballard and have lived in the south Seattle area now for the last 32 years. I have worked in the grocery business for most of my adult life and have been with PCC for 6 years now. I hope to receive your consideration and vote because I am passionate about fairness, respect, and accountability. The Labor Management Committee is a great opportunity for all of our voices to be heard. With my background in public service and the grocery industry, I am a strong candidate to help ensure that our voices and ideas are being weighed and taken seriously, in order for PCC to be prosperous well into the future. Thank you for your consideration. 

Scott Shiflett, Redmond PCC, Meat Dept

My name is Scott Shiflett and I am excited to have this Golden Opportunity to run for a position on the LMC! I’m looking forward to the work that we’ll accomplish, the relationships that we’ll build and the improvements we will bring through the work of the LMC. This is quite an honor to potentially be involved at the ground floor level of building this very important committee! I am a proud worker of PCC who brings 35 plus years of experience through my service in the grocery industry. I’ve seen how different departments are managed, the successes and failures of some practices and been a part of countless conversations with coworkers regarding the concerns they have about workplace matters. Serving on the Safety Committee for this same period of time has given me insight into this critical topic of discussion that we all must be attentive to. As a Bargaining Team member for many contract cycles, I have been honored to serve my coworkers by bringing their voices to the Bargaining table. There have been many late night ( and into the wee hours of the morning) bargaining sessions where both the Company and the Union were so close to reaching an agreement that we didn’t want to end our session! I’ve seen PCC change dramatically from the original family/neighbor style co-op to the now more corporate style. There are pros and cons to both. I feel we need to work together to find a harmonious blend between the two styles. To maintain our roots while growing and keeping instep with our changing membership and the dynamics of the grocery business as a whole. We must get back to our roots and be the family/neighborhood store we used to be while keeping up with the modernization of the grocery industry. We will work on finding the perfect balance to bring forth a happy and caring yet profitable company. I ask for your support, your vote as we move ahead in bringing forward the PCC we need, the values we must hold dear and foster the commitments we have to our community! Let’s cultivate the success of this company together!

Andrew Shustov, Bellevue PCC, Cheese

The first lesson I was taught when I started working in the grocery industry was that how a customer feels about their experience with a store is very strongly weighted among their other grocery shopping concerns (such as how much products there cost, a location’s convenience, or the quality of items). Similar considerations also very much apply to those of us who have chosen to work in the grocery industry. (How does it feel to work here? What is the pay? How convenient is it?) When I first started with PCC in 2019, the balance among these considerations on the employee side seemed very healthy among workers. Arrival of present year, and I’ve already watched coworkers who genuinely love the company and their own store locations vehemently vote “yes” on a strike ballot, and fully accept all of the personal uncertainty, anxiety, and financial awkwardness that comes with such a decision. Such votes were (by the majority) not made lightly. To run a successful grocery it is important to balance the above concerns of customers (or they will stop shopping). Likewise, to succeed in contract negotiations it is important to balance the above concerns of workers (or they will not accept the contract negotiations). My interest in the committee is to advance awareness toward worker concerns with the same level of enthusiasm, care, and practicality that any of us would bring toward the weight of shopper concerns.

Jayne Sonesen, PCC Fremont, Meat

Cares greatly about coworkers, and the future of the company as a whole. Views the company as a career and not just a job and is invested in its success.

Christopher Trebaol, Bellevue PCC, Produce

Christopher Lee Trebaol is Produce Lead at PCC Bellevue, starting with the company in summer of 2020. He is currently on the Worker Health and Safety Committee and founded the first Bellevue Worker Caucus Committee, and performed duties as Bellevue Shop Steward from 2020-2022. To Christopher the LMC represents an opportunity to elevate the unique concerns of all PCC employees, as well as take the first steps towards creating a more equitable Co-Op across the board. He hopes to address concerns around internal communication, budget, personal development and promotion, as well as provide a voice and expression to the varied and unique concerns of everyone within the company high or low. He hopes to bridge the many divides within the company, with charity and equanimity for all, and malice towards none. “The best days of PCC are ahead of us if we are all willing to reach out and take hold of them.”

Gabriella Von Ins, View Ridge PCC, Front End

I first started working for PCC in January 2018, and since then have worked in multiple stores and in various roles and departments. I am now currently a PIC at the View Ridge Store. My goals in being a PIC is to foster strong avenues for communication between staff members, empower staff to advocate for themselves and each other, and to provide resources for staff to safely and efficiently complete their tasks while finding a sense of pride in what they do. I believe that being a part of the LMC will allow me the opportunity to bridge these goals across the co-op, and collaborate with others in making them not only the reality but the standard.

Emily Weisenburger, Issaquah PCC, Health and Beauty

In 2023 I was a member of the bargaining committee where I was given the opportunity to listen to not just two sides of an argument, but many during negotiations. Back in the store, I was asked to explain the decisions and compromises. I am a member of the Worker Caucus Committee because I believe that workers should be heard and I want to facilitate that to better open the lines of communication between workers and managers.


Online vote: May 8 at 6:00am — May 9 at 6:00pm

To ensure you are able to participate in the secure online vote on May 8 and 9 you must make sure your personal email is up-to-date with the union! If you believe your information is out-of-date or if you haven’t been receiving union emails, please update your information!

Update you personal contact information ▸

If you have any questions, please reach out to a union Rep.

 Deep Roots - Did You Hear? Tentative Agreement Reached! Vote Scheduled!

After a year of bargaining, we have reached a fully recommended tentative agreement on our first union contract and will hold an in-person meeting the evening of Wednesday, May 8 to review a presentation of the recommended offer and vote. 

We organized our Union to address workplace safety and the reality that many of us struggle paycheck to paycheck to pay rent and other rising costs. This is historic—we are the first retail piercing and tattoo studios to unionize in Washington and possibly the first in the country! We are joining thousands of other workers with UFCW 3000 to set higher standards within our industry and ensure worker’s voices are centered in the future of Retail.

Our bargaining team is unanimously recommending a “YES” vote. 

  • Highlights of the tentative agreement include:

  • 6-Step Wage Scale with premium differentials for JGS certification and Co- Leads

  • Guaranteed wage increases every year on anniversary of employment and January 1

  • Commission on ALL Jewelry

  • Tips and Employee Discounts

  • Continued Healthcare benefit options with process to explore Dental coverage in 2025

  • Recognition of Holidays Juneteenth, Labor Day, and Christmas Eve… with time and a half pay

  • Paid Time Off

  • Workplace Safety language

  • Labor Management Committee

  • Just Cause Protections and Grievance Procedure to protect from disparate treatment

  • … and more!

CONTRACT VOTE SCHEDULED
Wednesday, May 8 at 8:00 PM

“Join us on May 8 to review the agreement with our team, ask questions, and learn about our new rights and benefits. We are excited to talk to everyone about how the contract will benefit us collectively and how we can build on it in the future!”

—Your Bargaining Team, Lexi Otway and Jude Manning 

Questions? Please contact your bargaining team or Union Representative Dominick Ojeda, 206-436-6586.

Grocery East Contract Votes Set

After nearly six months of bargaining with Albertson/Safeway and Kroger for a new contract that respects our work, increases our wages, and improves our retirement and healthcare, we are holding a contract vote! This notice serves to inform all members that a critical membership meeting will be held on May 2, 2024, at the Spokane Double Tree Hotel, in the conference center. We will be conducting a vote on the last offer presented by the Employer following our scheduled bargaining dates on April 29 and 30, 2024. 

The Agenda, Times and Location for the meeting will be: 

1. CONTRACT RATIFICATION VOTE: The bargaining committee will present the last offer received from the Employer. Members will have the opportunity to discuss the terms and implications of the offer before proceeding to a vote on whether to ratify or reject the proposed contract. 
2. STRIKE AUTHORIZATION VOTE (if applicable): Should the final offer not be recommended by the bargaining committee, we will also conduct a strike authorization vote. This vote will determine whether to engage in a strike or other action in response to the Employer’s final offer. 
3. VOTE TIMES & LOCATION: Any member in good standing will be able to vote at the Spokane DoubleTree Hotel and Conference Center, 322 N Spokane Falls Ct, Spokane WA 99201 from 9am-12pm or from 3pm-7pm on May 2, 2024. Carpool if you can, as parking is limited. Available parking will be at no cost, details available at registration.

For questions, please contact your Union Representative, bargaining committee members, and stewards for critical updates as things can change quickly and are time sensitive. If you are unable to connect with your union rep, steward or bargaining committee member you may call the MRC at 1-866-210-3000 for more information. 

All members in the Spokane Albertsons Meat, Spokane Albertsons Grocery, Spokane Safeway Meat, Spokane Safeway Grocery, Spokane Fred Meyer Meat, Spokane Fred Meyer Grocery, Spokane Fred Meyer CCK, are encouraged to be present for this important vote. Your voice and vote are essential in guiding the direction of our bargaining strategy.  

The Cheney Meat and Grocery Votes will be held at a separate time and location to be announced. The Oregon Grocery Vote will be held at a separate time and location to be announced.  

Kaiser Market wage increases ratified!

MARKET WAGE INCREASES RATIFIED!

KP ProTech/Optical and Pharmacy union members turned out yesterday in record numbers to say YES to increased wages!

After several months of union members pushing back against wage disparities through petitions, a demand letter, hundreds of postcards and using our collective voice, KP agreed to increase wages for UFCW Members.

Wage increases will be effective the beginning of the next full pay period.

Implementation of the wage increases will be in 90-120 days.

KP ProTech/Optical and Pharmacy members should see retro pay within two pay periods following the implementation date.

Congratulations!

Downtown Dog Lounge - Vote scheduled

After eight months of negotiations, our union Bargaining Team fully recommends a “YES” vote on our tentative agreement! Drop in to view the proposal and vote to have your voice heard.

South Lake Union
Friday, April 26 @ 2pm—5pm

1011 Mercer St, Seattle, WA 98102

Ballard
Friday, April 26 @ 8am—12pm
824 NW 46th St, Seattle, 98107

Kaiser Permanente WA Pro Tech, Optical, & Pharmacy WAGE INCREASES Online VOTE scheduled

Our union Bargaining Teams have reached a tentative agreement on mid-contract wage increases and are recommending a yes vote!

ONLINE VOTE SCHEDULED: Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 7am-5pm

On Thursday morning you will receive an email with your unique log-in credentials so you can review the wage increase proposal and vote. You must be a member in good standing to be eligible to participate in union votes, make sure your personal email is up-to-date use the QR code or visit ufcw3000.org >>

ONLINE INFORMATION MEETINGS:

Drop-in vote meetings to review the wage increase proposal and ask questions: Monday, April 15 from 5:30pm-6:30pm and Tuesday, April 16 from 12pm-1pm and 5:30pm-6:30pm

If you do not receive an email to vote on April 18, please contact union Rep Lauren VanWormer 206-436-6584 or Contract Specialist Rep JJ Benson 425-306-1357.

Providence Sacred Heart Being united gets results, but the fight isn’t over.

If our Bargaining Team is unable to reach a fully recommended offer at our next session on April 8  —then our union Bargaining Team is recommending a NO vote on the contract proposal and a YES vote to re-authorize a strike. 

When we fight we win! Management heard us because of our unanimous strike authorization vote. With the strength and support of our co-workers behind us, we were able to lock in significant movement at the table:  

We beat back management’s attempts to gut our dental plan. 

  • Proposals were exchanged that would ensure NO changes to our contractual dental plan over the course of the contract and included language that would ensure we keep our Dental plan in place long term, as long as it remains the standard for the Service & Maintenance unit at the hospital.  

We also locked in new Tentative Agreements on:  

  • Recognition of past experience for New Hires 

  • Increase Shift Differentials 

  • Increased Standby pay 

  •  Preceptor Premium 

  • Adding MLK Day as a holiday 

  • Clarity of sick leave usage 

  • Removal of Ghost Step for step 23 and Step 11 

  • Improved Grievance process 

  • Staffing LOU  

  • Tuition reimbursement increase 

While these are promising improvements they are not enough until we win significant improvements on wage proposals. 

Caregivers deserve respect from Management, Sacred Heart is the only level 2 trauma hospital in the area and is a vital resource for our community for miles around. Other hospitals send us their most complicated and desperate patients to get the care they need. 

Throughout the negotiation process Management has tried to circumvent good faith bargaining by unanimously implementing procedures around mealtimes and breaks, imposing a wage path without negotiating, frustrating the process by failing to provide essential information to our union bargaining team, and other unfair labor practices.  

Contract vote scheduled: Thursday, April 11 from 7am to 8pm in the Leahy Room (next to the cafeteria). 

If we are unable to reach a fully recommended offer at our next session scheduled for April 8 our union Bargaining Team is recommending a NO vote on the contract proposal and a YES vote to re-authorize a strike. Any time there are significant changes to the proposal we must re-vote. All members in good standing are encouraged to vote. To receive the union strike pay benefit, you must complete a W9 form before we go on strike >>

“We need to show Management that the progress we made isn’t enough with a strong NO Vote. We hope we can reach a tentative agreement, but we are united and ready for a ULP strike if we must. Over the next week we will be signing up for strike shifts and picket captain trainings. We are not afraid to do what we must to win,” - Craig Kistler 

“We need to recruit and retain talented caregivers so that we can provide the quality healthcare this community expects from a Trauma level 2 Hospital. Spokane has become one of the most expensive places to live in Eastern Washington, we need wages that stay competitive with other area healthcare centers and acknowledge the unique and important role that Sacred Heart plays in caring for communities for miles around.” - Teresa Bowden

Next steps:

  1. Addend the contract vote/strike re-authorization vote on Thursday, April 11 from 7am to 8pm in the Leahy Room (next to the cafeteria.

  1.  Strike shift sign-ups will be available next week 

  1. To receive strike pay you must complete and return a W-9 >> 

Kraken (Retail) - Tentative Agreement Reached

Kraken (Retail)
Tentative Agreement Reached
Our Bargaining Team recommends a “YES” Vote!

After months of bargaining, our Bargaining Team has reached a new tentative settlement agreement with BDA. The outstanding result of the final agreement reflects everyone’s hard work and commitment. Our union is driven by members coming together to fight for better working conditions and here are some of the things in our tentative agreement:

  • *NEW* Ratification Bonus of $125

  • Retroactive pay for workers making under $21/hr and for Keyholder premiums starting September 25, 2023

  • Increased base wage for all workers and guaranteed retention bonus

  • ORCA and parking benefits

  • Workplace protections including just cause for disciplines

  • Meals provided at every game

  • Improvement on merch options for members

  • Increased tuition assistance

  • And more!

Members will be able to review the full collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and cast a vote on whether to approve it at our vote meeting.

Vote Details

Workers may only vote during the designated vote window and must attend in person. Complete a union application, review the agreement, ask questions, and cast your ballot!

Tuesday, April 9 @ 3pm—5pm
Climate Pledge Arena - Kraken Team Store, 334 1st Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

Questions? Contact Union Rep Dominick Ojeda @ 206-436-6586.

Swains General Store - Contract Ratified!

Swains General Store
Contract Ratified!

The votes have been counted and UFCW Local 3000 members at Swains General Store have voted to ratify our new 3-year contract! Our new contract includes:

  • $1.30/hr wage increase paid retroactively back to January 1, 2024

  • Significantly reduces the number of hours required to attain Journey status

  • Maintains our FREE quality healthcare through throughout the term of our 3-year contract

  • A new personal day, and much more

If you have any questions please reach out to a workplace steward or Union Rep Naomi Oligario @ 360-662-1989.

Swain’s General Store - Contract Vote Scheduled!

Our Union Bargaining Team has finalized the time and location to vote on our fully recommended Tentative Agreement with the Employer that:

  • Significantly reduces the number of hours required to attain Journey status.

  • Increases wages.

  • Includes retroactive pay to January 1 of this year.

  • Maintains our quality healthcare through the Sound Health and Wellness Trust without passing hourly cost increases on the employees.

The Vote will be held at The Red Lion Port Angeles Harbor Hotel (221 N Lincoln St). UFCW 3000 members in good standing are encouraged to attend a meeting, ask questions, and vote on the contract. Contact a Bargaining Team member or your Union Representative for any questions! 

Friday, March 22

The Red Lion Port Angeles Harbor Hotel (221 N Lincoln St).

  • 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

  • 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

  • 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Our Bargaining Team is recommending a “Yes” vote on this Tentative Agreement! We look forward to seeing you at the vote!

Our Union Negotiations Team (left to right): Mike Nichols, Floor Clerk (Shoes); Robert Sommers, Receiving Clerk; Richard Drake, Receiving Clerk/Warehouse Contact; Shawn Price, Cashier/Person In Charge (not pictured)

Lourdes Medical Center - Tentative Agreement Reached at Lourdes Medical Center for Contract Extension and Wage Increases for All Represented Service & Maintenance Employees

To address the immediate retention and recruitment issues at Lourdes Medical Center, the bargaining team and Administration met to discuss the possibility of extending the current contract with increases to compensation and other changes. After two days of conversations, we were able to reach a tentative agreement that will close the gap in compensation with our geographic competitor. We believe the increases will help our hospital with retention and recruitment, which will lead to better patient outcomes.

“The bargaining team worked hard to make sure that there were substantial increases to the wage scale, increases to PTO accrual, and an additional step to the top of the scale. It was an intense bargaining session, but we finally met somewhere in the middle. Without a Union, we have no voice. Having a Union gives us a strong voice and makes it easier to stand up and fight back.”

— Our Bargaining Team, Left to right: Candie Gonzales, Rorie Lopez, Sam Zoller, Juanita Quezada Representative

Competitive wages are an absolute must to recruit and retain quality staff. We believe this proposal achieves that goal.

Drop-in Vote Meeting!

March 15, 2024,
3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Carondolet Room

Please join your bargaining team in voting YES on March 15, 2024, anytime between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM in the Carondolet room next to the cafeteria. A complete document of the contract and the new wage scale will be available at the vote along with your bargaining team to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. You must be a UFCW 3000 member in good standing to vote. Please reach out to your Union Representative Juanita Quezada with any questions at (509) 340-7407.

Ashley House We have reached a tentative agreement on a new Union Contract

This contract is fully recommended by the Bargaining Team. Our Union Bargaining Team: (L-R) Cindy Jones LPN Browns Point, Emily Guffin RN Spokane, Donna Iverson CNA Olympia

Highlights include:

  • 3% Wage Increase

  • Effective January 2024

  • Maintenance of Health Benefits

  • Expiration Date of August 1, 2024

Contract Votes Scheduled!

Monday, March 18 from 4:30pm-7:00pm

Olympia: 1240 Smith Street SE. Olympia WA 98501

Shoreline: 18904 Burke Ave N. Shoreline WA 98133

Tuesday, March 19 from 4:30pm-7:00pm

Brown’s Point: 4411 Browns Point Blvd. NE. Tacoma WA 98422

Kent: 25120 43 Avenue S. Kent WA 98032

Wednesday March 20, 2024 from 4:30pm-7:00pm

Edgewood: 11306 8th Street E. Edgewood WA 98372

Auburn: 30313 118th Avenue SE. Auburn WA 98092

Spokane: 4118 S. Cook Street. Spokane WA 99223

UFCW 3000 members in good standing are encouraged to attend a meeting, ask questions, and vote. For additional information contact our Union Representative or a Bargaining Team member.

Olympic Medical Center Support Services - Vote to Change Eligibility Time to Use Vacation Accruals

We have a tentative agreement with OMC to shorten the amount of time worked before employees are eligible to use accrued vacation. This is a change to the current Support Services Contract and will require a vote of Union Members.

Voting on this proposed change will be held:

Port Angeles

  • Tuesday, March 12, 2024

  • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

  • PFS Building, Basement Breakroom

  • 519 S. Peabody St., Port Angeles, WA 98362

  • Tuesday, March 12, 2024

  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

  • Olympic Medical Center, Linkletter Conference Room

  • 939 Caroline Street, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Sequim

  • Tuesday, March 12, 2024

  • 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Medical Services Building (MSB), 2nd Floor Conference Room

  • 840 N 5th Avenue, Sequim, WA 98382

UFCW 3000 members in good standing are encouraged to attend a meeting, ask questions, and vote.

Questions? Contact Union Representative Aimee Oien: (360) 662-1981

Olympic Medical Home Health - Vote on Memorandum of Agreement

Olympic Medical Home Health
Vote on Memorandum of Agreement

Our Bargaining Team: Joseph Bridge, Danielle Green, Susan Montana, Sandra Villam

We have reached a tentative agreement with Olympic Home Health on a memorandum of agreement (MOA) which memorializes current law regarding union membership.

This addition constitutes a change to the current contract so will require a vote of Union Members. To vote, you must be an active Union Member in good standing.

Vote Details

Sequim
Monday, March 11 @ 8am-9:30am

777 N. 5th Ave, Suite 102, Sequim WA 93832

Port Angeles
Monday, March 11 @ 11:30am-1pm

Conference Room - 801 Front St, Suite D, Port Angeles WA 98362

Questions? Contact a Bargaining Team member or Union Rep Aimee Oien @ 360-662-1981.

Update Your Contact Info
ufcw3000.org/update-your-information

Olympic Medical Center Pro Tech Vote to Change Eligibility Time to Use Vacation Accruals

Olympic Medical Center Pro Tech

Vote to Change Eligibility Time to Use Vacation Accruals

We have a tentative agreement with OMC to shorten the number of months worked before employees are eligible to use accrued vacation.

This is a change to the current Pro Tech Contract so will require a vote of Union Members. Contract change votes scheduled:

Port Angeles: Monday, March 11, 2024 3:00pm-7:00pm

Olympic Medical Center in the Fairshter Meeting Room, 939 Caroline Street. Port Angeles, WA 98362

Sequim: Tuesday, March 12, 2024 8:00am-9:30am

Medical Services Building (MSB) in the Conference Room, 840 N 5th Avenue. Sequim, WA 98382

You must be a member in good standing to be eligible to vote.

If you have questions please contact Union Representative Aimee Oien at 360-662-1981

Make sure your personal contact information is up to date >>

Cascade Valley Hospital - We Reached a Deal!

BARGAINING TEAM: Carl Ramirez (Security Officer), Lisa Warriax (MSW)

On February 22 and 26, our bargaining team met with the Employer for two intense and final bargaining sessions. During these sessions, the team asserted the bargaining unit’s priorities and came out victorious with a fully recommended tentative agreement. The tentative agreement is a huge win for security officers and MSWs, which includes wage increases for the newly accreted unit.

Highlights include:

  • Just Cause standard must be used when administering discipline

  • Access to the grievance procedure in case of contract violations or discipline

  • Seniority language that protects employees’ original date of hire

  • Defined premium rates and health benefits

  • Lay-off procedure

  • Labor management committee to discuss workplace issues

  • Body Armor will be made available for Security Officers and higher quality footwear provided for incoming new hires

  • $2 per hour Float pay when assigned to work locations in Skagit County

  • Yearly longevity wage increases

  • Across the board wage increases

  • New and innovative language which allows members to resubmit their resume for initial placement on the wage scale

“This has been a long road with a steep learning curve, but our persistence has paid off! During a very dark time, being part of a union has been a light. We have a voice to fight.”

A contract ratification vote will be held on Wednesday, March 6, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Pilchuck Conference room in Cascade Valley Hospital. To cast your vote, you must appear in person and be a union member in good standing. All members are encouraged to come learn about the new CBA and ask questions.

Your bargaining team recommends a “YES” vote!