Contract Discussions Continue Without Progress

This week, Kroger and UFCW Local 400 met again to discuss a first contract for associates in Stores 524, 542, 554, 573, 577 and 580. The discussions helped both sides better understand each other’s positions. However, the parties made no progress toward reaching an agreement.

During this week’s talks, the union re-stated its belief that existing contract language requires Kroger to add these stores to the existing Richmond–Tidewater contract.

Kroger reads that language differently. We believe it calls for the company and the union to meet and negotiate a fair agreement for these stores. Kroger has met with Local 400 16 times since May to work toward an agreement.

By filing a grievance, Local 400 started a formal process that will decide how the parties will reach an agreement on a first contract.

What Happens Next
There may be a longer gap between bargaining sessions while the grievance process moves forward. No bargaining dates are currently scheduled. We remain ready to bargain and will share an update when new dates are set or there is a development that affects associates in these stores.