Many workers from Fred Meyer and QFC grocery stores began a week-long strike Friday after labor negotiations dragged on for a month between their union and the Kroger-owned supermarket chains.
Not all workers with United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555 are walking out, but the strike is affecting some locations in Portland, Bend, Newberg and Klamath Falls.
In Bend, about 50 workers stood outside on the sidewalk early Friday morning.
Union members told Central Oregon Daily News they were not allowed to speak to the media.
Great to visit with @ufcw555 workers #inBend standing out here in the cold to advocate for fair treatment from Fred Meyer. Grocery workers have been on the front lines of the pandemic from day one helping us all get food on our tables. Please support them – don’t cross the line. pic.twitter.com/N0Gr3Pfx7F
— Councilor Melanie Kebler (@MelanieforBCC) December 17, 2021
Bend City Councilor Melanie Kebler tweeted her support for those on strike.
“Don’t cross the picket line and do your shopping elsewhere until Fred Meyer and QFC treat their workers with fairness and respect,” she wrote
The union says Kroger has engaged in unfair labor practices by underpaying certain workers.
Kroger calls the decision to strike so close to the holidays “reckless” and posted signs in stores offering $17 an hour for new hires willing to cross a picket line.
Later Friday Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden tweeted his support for the striking workers as well.
I’ve been to every Fred Meyer in Oregon. I always enjoy visiting with the hardworking @ufcw555 members in every part of our state. These essential workers have made many sacrifices during the pandemic and deserve a fair contract. I’m in their corner all the way. #UnionStrong https://t.co/DHnVjrP5bw
— Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) December 17, 2021
