What happened during our first pharmacist contract bargaining session?
Today, we met with Ralphs, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions for our first day of bargaining on our pharmacist contract. We showed up to get the contract you deserve and fight against company policies that burn you out and put you at risk of errors that could harm your patients.
We began the bargaining session by presenting all our proposals, including wages that keep up with inflation and are comparable to what other retail pharmacists earn, sufficient staffing to support safe patient care, and improvements to our pension so we can retire with dignity.
The companies didn’t have any of their own proposals ready to discuss today, however we encourage them to take the time between now and our next meeting to think about the value you bring to their companies and provide fair responses to our proposals.
Pharmacists are already stretched to the limit
Despite inadequate staffing, you manage long lines and nonstop phone calls and ensure prescriptions are filled accurately and on time. Even in the middle of flu season and with growing demands, pharmacists continue to put patient care first.
Patients deserve more. So do you. It’s time the companies put you first. Standing together, whether at the bargaining table or in the pharmacies, will show Ralphs, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions that you have the power to fight to make your jobs better and that we’re serious about our proposals.
What’s Next?
We will be scheduling new bargaining dates with the companies soon, and we will send you another update after that session. In the meantime, here’s how you can show Ralphs, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions that you’re united:
Wear your new UFCW Pharmacist union button to show your solidarity and power. Only by rising up together will you win the contract you deserve. Show the company that you are united and willing to fight for yourselves, your co-workers, your patients, and your communities. If you haven’t received your button yet, reach out to your union representative.
Follow UFCW Local 135’s website and social media accounts!
These platforms will house the most up-to-date information. Pharmacists can find bargaining updates and other content about the contract there, so make sure you and all of your co-workers follow the accounts to stay informed:
If you have any questions about bargaining, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Union Representative.