On August 20, members of UFCW Local 700 who work at Kroger stores in Decatur, Ill., ratified a new contract that raises pay and protects benefits.
The three-year contract, which was ratified by an overwhelming margin, creates a better and more secure future for Decatur Kroger workers and their families. The new contract includes increases for starting pay rates, for members moving through the brackets, and for top rate. With this new contract, department heads and top-rated clerks receive $.75 per hour premium above their regular hourly rate each year of the contract and a $750 bonus each year. The starting rate increase is $3.25 over three years and raises in progressions of over $3.00 during the three-year term. In addition, the contract protects quality, affordable health care for members and their families, and the retirement security they’ve earned and deserve.
The Negotiating Committee secured improvements to daily claiming rights and language for the grievance procedure. The contract expands funeral leave coverage and protects the educational leave policy. It also improves seniority protection so members may maximize schedules.
“Good jobs build the foundation of strong communities,” said International Vice President and UFCW Local 700 President Joe Chorpenning. “This new contract provides good jobs that create better lives for our members and their families.”