Workers at Safeway locations in Castle Rock and Denver went on strike on Monday, joining employees in several other cities across Colorado in protest against Safeway and Albertsons for alleged unfair labor practices.
The walkout involved workers from the Denver store on Broadway and Mineral Avenue and the Castle Rock store on S. Perry St. After nine months of negotiations, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 rejected the latest offer from Safeway and Albertsons, citing concerns about staffing, wages, and the protection of workers’ benefits.
Despite a contract extension and strike authorization votes, the parties failed to reach an agreement. The strike began at 6 a.m. on Sunday, June 15, with union members in Estes Park, Fountain, Pueblo, and the Safeway Distribution Center in Denver participating.
Kim Cordova, president of UFCW 7, stated that the strike could potentially involve around 7,000 workers if it expands to all participating stores. This strike would be the second-largest of the year, following a strike by King Soopers and City Market employees earlier in the year.
Union members in various cities across Colorado are prepared to join the strike, with the majority of members voting to authorize it. Stores in Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Greeley, and Longmont are expected to hold strike-authorization votes soon.
The strike is being rolled out gradually to raise awareness about the workers’ issues, demonstrate the workers’ commitment, and minimize the impact on shoppers and employees. The union emphasized the importance of public understanding and support throughout the strike.
Stay updated on business news by subscribing to our Economy Now newsletter.
Original Article Published:
