Vons workers ratify SoCal contract

PLEASANTON, Calif. Safeway Inc. today announced the ratification of the new 2007-2011 Southern California Retail Food and Meat Agreement by its Southern California Vons and Pavilions employees represented by United Food and Commercial Workers Union Locals 135, 324, 770, 1036, 1167, 1428 and 1442. The new 48-month agreement expires on March 6, 2011. The agreement had been recommended for ratification by the local unions to their members.

"I applaud the UFCW International Union, the seven Southern California UFCW locals and our employer bargaining partners for coming to agreement on a contract that benefits our employees, customers and company," said Safeway chairman, president and ceo Steve Burd. "This new agreement provides employees with the best wages, benefits and working conditions in the Southern California retail market, while making certain Vons has the tools to thrive in a highly competitive environment.