As the strike against King Soopers in the Denver area and Pueblo enters its sixth day, both the company and the union are locked in a stalemate. Unfair labor practice complaints have been filed by both sides, with a flurry of emails being exchanged. King Soopers has taken legal action by filing a lawsuit and seeking a temporary restraining order against picketers.
King Soopers President Joe Kelley acknowledged on Tuesday that the labor dispute appears to have reached an impasse. Meanwhile, Kim Cordova, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, stated that union officials were heading to court after King Soopers sought a temporary restraining order against picketers.
The supermarket chain has alleged that picketing activities have created unsafe conditions, leading them to seek the restraining order. In response, UFCW Local 7 has accused the company of stifling their voice by refusing to negotiate in good faith.
King Soopers has also filed a lawsuit accusing UFCW Local 7 of unlawfully forcing them to bargain with labor unions from out of state. Despite invitations to Albertsons/Safeway representatives to attend bargaining sessions, tensions remain high between the two parties.
The union has expressed concerns about the company’s offers and has filed unfair labor practice complaints with the National Labor Relations Board. Both sides seem to be at a standstill, with negotiations stalled and no resolution in sight.
Despite the challenges, there is still hope for further negotiations and a potential resolution to the ongoing labor dispute. The situation remains tense, with both King Soopers and UFCW Local 7 standing firm in their positions.
