ULP Strike Authorization Passes Overwhelmingly!
Hundreds of UFCW pharmacists at Ralphs, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions represented by UFCW local unions across Southern California have overwhelmingly voted to authorize an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike.
This vote sends a strong message: pharmacists have had enough of Ralphs’ and Albertsons’ unfair labor practices that undermine pharmacists and silence their voices.
Grocery pharmacists have now been working for four months under an expired contract, and Ralphs and Albertsons have refused to make a fair offer. While pharmacists have been at the bargaining table trying to reach an agreement, UFCW has raised concerns over unfair labor practices by the companies, including unilateral changes without bargaining, unlawful surveillance of members active in the contract campaign, and the failure to provide information necessary for bargaining.
These actions have made it more difficult to negotiate a fair agreement. It’s time for Ralphs and Albertsons to respect pharmacists’ rights, recognize their collective voice, and return to the bargaining table with contract proposals that reflect the essential role pharmacists play in providing quality patient care that drives the companies’ success.
A ULP Strike Authorization does not mean pharmacists are on strike. All current contract provisions and protections remain in place while negotiations continue, including health insurance coverage. Pharmacists should continue reporting to work according to their normal schedules unless an official union representative notifies them that a strike affecting their store has begun.
It is important to stay in contact with Union Representatives, who will continue communicating updates on bargaining, campaign activities, and next steps. Pharmacists should not walk off the job unless the Union officially calls a strike, as doing so could result in discipline or termination.
What’s Next?
The next bargaining sessions are scheduled for August 6 and 7. Until then, stay connected. Stay ready. This is an important moment in the campaign.
Pharmacists have shown they are united and prepared to do what it takes to defend their rights.
If you have any questions about bargaining, the ULP strike authorization vote, or anything else related to the contract campaign, please contact your Union Representative.