What's The Deal With The Stop & Shop Strike?

As you may be aware, the management of "Stop & Shop" (one of the largest supermarkets on the East Coast) has been in an ongoing contract dispute with its employees.  On April 11, the local unions that represent some thirty-one thousand workers walked off the job, demanding a better deal from the company.  Here's a quick summary of the issues behind the dispute, and what has been offered. 

• Issue #1: Wages and Salaries.  

The unions claim that the company's proposed contract cuts employee pay, and replaces raises with annual bonuses(1).  In addition, the workers allege that Stop & Shop's offer eliminates certain weekend benefits.

  What's The Fact, Jack?

According to the proposal detailed at the company web site(2), all associates will receive increases in pay.  Additionally, Stop & Shop says that there will be no changes to weekend benefits.  

• Issue #2: Pension and Retirement Plans.  

Striking employees state that, under the current proposal, the company's share of pension monies would be greatly reduced (or eliminated altogether)(1).  The unions have requested that management agree to a twenty percent increase in such benefits.  

  What's The Fact, Jack?

Stop & Shop has agreed to the union's request regarding pension plans(2).  Part-time employees will see their benefits maintained at the current funding level.  

• Issue #3: Health Care.  

The unions claim that under the current proposal, their members would be forced to pay more money for standard healthcare benefits(1).  In addition, the workers allege that the company plans to end coverage for spouses of employees.  

  What's The Fact, Jack?

According to the company's proposal, employees will pay a little more for their healthcare than they presently do(2).  However, this cost will remain far less than the national average for worker heath plans.  Regarding coverage for spouses, some of the presently offered programs will no longer be available.

As you can see, many of the claims made by the striking unions are false, or at least incorrect in their logic.  The workers say that Stop & Shop's offer is unfair, and "unreasonable"(1).  However, looking at the facts in front of me, I believe the company's offer to be very generous.  

The question presenting itself is, to quote an old labor song, "which side are you on".  Do you support the striking workers, or are you on the side of company management? Personally, I will probably choose to cross the picket lines; some may decide to do differently, which is their right.  As is usually the case, there are two sides to this dispute.  The proper choice is a decision that is up to you, the individual shopper.  Choose wisely, my friends!

1. “Negotiations Update.” UFCW 919, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, 16 Apr. 2019, http://www.ufcw919.org/negotiations-update/.

2. “Stop & Shop Final Offer - UFCW Local 371.” Stop & Shop Stores, 28 Mar. 2019.