Indiana workers uniting for good jobs

 

(Indiana) In the midst of an unparalleled economic crisis in America where the middle class just can’t seem to catch a break these days, grocery workers across Indiana have something to celebrate this week: a new agreement between the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 700 and the Kroger Company that promises to uplift wages and improve jobs across the region.

 

The contract covers 1100 Kroger/Sav-On workers in central Indiana and provides improvements to wages, health and welfare, and vacation days.

“I am thrilled,” said Jennifer Keating, Local 700 member and Kroger Sav-On employee.  “I’ve only been with the company a little over a year, and with this contract I'm going to get $2.65 in raises in just one year. And I’ve also gained another week’s paid vacation.”

 

By standing together, workers have a stronger voice when it comes time to discuss contracts. Workers with a union have a chance to discuss concerns that might otherwise be ignored by big companies. That helps workers get what they need, which in turn strengthens communities and local businesses.

 

“The UFCW has settled good contracts, the kind that bring good jobs, in cities across the country—including right here in Indianapolis,” said Joe Chorpenning, president of UFCW Local 700. “By uniting workers to bargain better contracts,” he continued, “we’re helping grocery workers throughout Indiana turn supermarket jobs into good, middle class jobs—the kind that come with affordable health care, a living wage, and a secure retirement, and that benefit workers and their communities.”

 

As the mortgage industry collapses and futures look uncertain, the agreement couldn’t come at a better time.

 

Members are keenly aware of the difference the contract will make to their standard of living. “Gaining this new prescription card will save me hundreds of dollars,” said Miranda Biddle, Local 700 member and Kroger Sav-On employee. “And I gain vision and dental improvements, too. I love it!”

 

The recent contract is part of a nationwide push to unify more workers across the country and help raise standards for everyone.

 

“Grocery store workers across Indiana are enjoying better lives because they are uniting to improve wages and benefits in the grocery industry,” said Chorpenning. “And we’re taking that message to every community in Indiana, from Evansville to Fort Wayne.”