Ralphs union workers ratify new contract

LOS ANGELES Ralphs Grocery Co. said today it has been informed that members of United Food and Commercial Workers Locals in Southern California have ratified a new contract with the company. According to the company, the four-year contract, effective immediately, covers more than 19,000 employees represented by UFCW Local 135, Local 324, Local 770, Local 1036, Local 1167, Local 1428 and Local 1442.

"This agreement provides wage increases and affordable quality health care benefits for our associates and their families and keeps Ralphs competitive in the marketplace," said Dave Hirz, president of Ralphs Grocery Co., a division of The Kroger Co.