http://www.reuters.com/article/consumerproducts-SP/idUSN1842885220070619California grocers, labor gloomy on contract talks
Mon Jun 18, 2007 8:41PM EDT
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Labor unions and three major supermarket chains in southern California expressed doubts on Monday about reaching an agreement on a new contract as a union-imposed deadline expires later this week.
The unions for 65,000 workers set a deadline of Thursday at midday to end negotiations on a contract that was originally set to expire in March. The union will either advise its members to accept whatever proposal is on the table or vote to authorize a strike.
"I hope, we all hope, there's a deal we can recommend to our members," said Mike Shimpock, spokesperson for the seven unions involved in negotiations on Monday. "Unfortunately, that looks like that's not going to happen."
Representatives of the groceries also said they believe an agreement by Thursday is not likely, according to Adena Tessler, spokesperson for Safeway Inc.'s Vons and Pavilions units, Kroger Co.'s Ralphs chain and Supervalu Inc.'s Albertsons stores.
"These are very important and complex issues being discussed," Tessler said.
"We're not going to be rushed into agreeing to a bad contract if it's not in the best interest of our employees or our companies."
FULL story at link.