Report: Albertsons shifting to third-party delivery in California

Albertsons Cos. is reportedly replacing many delivery drivers in California with in independent contractors.

According to Knock L.A., in late February the grocery conglomerate will begin performing deliveries with a third-party delivery service using independent contractors at banners including Vons and Pavilion in California. This will result in the layoffs of employed drivers, although unionized drivers working at Bay Area Albertsons stores will keep their jobs. 

Albertsons is making this move following the passage of Proposition 22 in California, a voter initiative which makes it easier for companies to shift responsibilities from non-unionized, full-time employees to independent contractors. Although the affected drivers are not union members, California unions are reportedly still pledging to fight these layoffs.

“We will transition that portion of our e-commerce operations to third-party logistics providers,” an Albertsons spokesperson told Knock L.A. “While we know that this move will help us create a more efficient operation, it wasn’t a decision we made lightly or without a great deal of consideration.”