On August 31, members of UFCW Local 99 working at Fry’s, Safeway, and Smith’s supermarket chains in Arizona overwhelmingly voted to ratify a new contract that included the largest wage increase for long-term, full-time employees in over 30 years.
Alongside a historic $6,000 wage increase for long-term and full-time members, the 30-month contract also includes a new paid holiday for many employees, a ratification bonus, and a reduced health care waiting period for all employees.
“It is always our goal to secure the strongest possible contract for our members. However, as Arizona grocery workers faced rising inflation, a pending mega-merger, and an ongoing global health crisis, our union leadership was prepared to do everything in our power to meet this moment,” said UFCW Local 99 President Jim McLaughlin. “Our ability to reach an early agreement with historic wage increases is a testament to the strength of our membership and the power we have when we stand together in solidarity to raise the standard of living for working families.”
