The United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 951 announced today that negotiations are set to commence with Meijer to establish a new contract, safeguarding the rights and benefits of more than 28,000 indispensable retail, transportation, and distribution complex workers throughout the state.
John Cakmakci, UFCW 951 president, commented on the upcoming discussions, stating, “As we begin negotiations, we have made it very clear to Meijer we want a strong contract for our members. Our members, as essential workers, have endured a lot over the past three years and believe it is now their turn to share in the healthy profits their employer recorded during, and following, the pandemic. Workers across the country, in a wide variety of industries, are taking a stand and demanding the wages, benefits, and working conditions they deserve, and our members are no exception.”
Central to the negotiations is the demand for significant wage enhancements, especially pertinent for the long-standing employees. In addition, the members are keen on negotiating for added paid leave and an affordable health plan, ensuring protection against debilitating medical expenses arising from grave illnesses or injuries.
Highlighting the broader public sentiment, Cakmakci added, “The public support for unions and striking workers is at a near all-time high. After years of making sacrifices, putting their lives on the line each day as essential workers, and watching CEOs and shareholders reap the rewards, workers are rightfully demanding their fair share.”
Detroit’s Big Three Automakers Negotiations Continue Amid Prolonged Strike
In a related labor movement, the strike against Detroit’s primary three automakers — General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Stellantis — trudged into its third week. Initiated by the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, discussions that began in July have stretched into October, surpassing the contract deadline set for September 14.
Here’s a snapshot of the situation:
- As of Monday, Oct. 2, approximately 25,000 UAW-represented autoworkers were actively on strike.
- The initial strike, initiated on Sept. 15, saw roughly 13,000 workers from each of the Big Three automakers.
- On Sept. 22, UAW President Shawn Fain incorporated an additional 5,000 workers, targeting 38 parts distribution facilities across the nation.
- By the end of the following week, the strike had broadened to include two more plants, pulling 7,000 more workers into the fold.
Although both parties haven’t yet arrived at a consensus, bargaining has shown varied degrees of progress across the companies, as reported by the UAW.