Kroger hopeful for union agreement

CINCINNATI Kroger announced today that it is still in talks with United Food and Commercial Workers locals 408 & 455, which represents 12,700 employees working at approximately 110 stores in the greater Houston area. The current contract expired at midnight, Saturday, March 31. In addition, Kroger is in negotiations with Local 540 in the Dallas area. This agreement covers 584 associates in 90 stores and their contract expired June 6.

Since Feb. 16, the Cincinnati-based grocery chain and the UFCW local unions have been negotiating on a new collective bargaining agreement with the intent of promoting and improving labor/management relations and agreements covering wages, benefits, and conditions of employment.

"Kroger remains committed to working with union representatives to reach a balanced agreement that provides good wages and benefits for associates in way that keeps Kroger's jobs secure and our company competitive," explains Gary Huddleston, director of consumer Affairs, Southwest division. "We continue to be hopeful that a fair and balanced agreement can be reached and our concern as always is for all of our Kroger associates."