Despite C&S deal, UFCW 367 remains opposed to megamerger

The following statement is from UFCW Local 367:

TACOMA (Sept. 11, 2023) — Following the news release of a pending divestiture deal between Kroger, Albertson’s, and C&S Wholesale Grocers, UFCW locals across the country met with UFCW International to discuss the potential impact to grocery store workers. (In Washington state, Kroger operates as Fred Meyer and QFC, and Albertsons also operates as Safeway.)

Much is still unclear as to the specifics of the deal. What is known is that the first step in the approval process requires the companies to provide a list to the FTC of potential stores to be divested with parameters of a sale amounting to 104 stores in Washington state to C&S Wholesale Grocers.

C&S is a company that has operated for more than 100 years in the grocery industry and is known for Piggly Wiggly stores that once populated the Pacific Northwest. The approval period with the FTC is 60 days and no sale, if approved, would happen beforehand. The FTC could also request an extension if necessary.

UFCW Local 367 continues to oppose this megamerger and will continue to monitor the situation. A Virtual Town Hall has been scheduled for Oct. 26 at 6pm to update the membership and greater community and discuss next steps in fighting the merger.