Union workers of King Soopers grocery stores in Colorado Springs have authorized a strike after voting overwhelmingly in favor of taking action against the company’s alleged unfair labor practices. According to UFCW Local 7, more than 95% of its 23,000 members in Colorado and Wyoming supermarkets voted to authorize the strike.
The union claims that King Soopers made its last best and final offer, but workers feel their concerns are being disregarded. David Burciago, a 44-year veteran union member, stated that “we are tired of watching the Company gouge our customers because of chronic understaffing in the stores.” He added that workers want to end King Soopers’ unfair labor practices and force the company to take their concerns seriously.
King Soopers disputed these allegations, saying they believe the union’s move is premature. The company claims it remains committed to increasing associates’ paychecks while keeping groceries affordable for customers. However, President Joe Kelley stated that “any associate who chooses to continue to work is welcome” – implying workers who choose not to strike will be left without a paycheck.
The union has yet to announce the exact times, dates, and locations of the strikes but promises to do so in advance. The move comes after similar strikes were authorized by colleagues in other areas, including Boulder, Broomfield, Metro Denver, and Parker.
Source: https://www.fox21news.com/news/local/colorado-springs-king-soopers-workers-vote-to-strike