Denver King Soopers Strike Ends After 12 Days

Over 10,000 King Soopers grocery workers in Denver have concluded their 12-day strike after union leaders reached an agreement with Kroger. The agreement provides protections for returning employees and sets the stage for ongoing negotiations.

Negotiation Impasse and Strike Triggers

Previous contract negotiations between employees and management reached a standstill due to disputes over staffing and healthcare. However, the alleged unfair labor practices by Kroger pushed workers to strike at 77 stores in Denver and its suburbs.

Union and Kroger Agreement

United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 President Kim Cordova stated that the union will return to negotiations with an agreement that prohibits Kroger from unilaterally implementing any offer for 100 days or locking out workers during that period. Employees' health insurance is guaranteed through April under the agreement. Kroger has also withdrawn its previous "last, best and final" offer.

"We have made significant progress and communicated to Kroger that staffing is a critical concern for both employees and customers," Cordova said. "We will continue our negotiations for a fair union contract that benefits us, our customers, and our communities."

Union Allegations and Kroger's Response

Following the contract expiration in mid-January, the union accused King Soopers of interrogating and surveilling members, withholding necessary information for negotiations, threatening discipline for union support, and using retiree health funds for pay increases.

King Soopers has denied all allegations, maintaining compliance with the law and collective bargaining obligations. "Our priority is to reach a fair agreement that acknowledges our employees' hard work while ensuring we continue to provide affordable groceries to our customers," stated King Soopers President Joe Kelley.

Strike Aftermath and Call for Expanded Staffing

Union leaders removed picket lines on Monday night to facilitate a smooth transition back to normal operations. Stores that remained open during the strike will resume regular business hours by Thursday.

Cordova emphasized that the strike was a pivotal step in addressing the issue of inadequate staffing in grocery stores across the country.