Contract bargaining stalled at Marlene’s

UFCW Local 367 is calling on labor and community to lend their support to the workers as they continue to bargain for a first contract

TACOMA, WA (August 26, 2025) — The newly-organized workers at Marlene’s Market & Deli in Tacoma are deep in negotiations for a first union contract. Their union, UFCW Local 367, reports that negotiations have hit an impasse on key issues for four months.

Workers won their union election in February of this year. Organizing was spurred by the acquisition of Marlene’s Market & Deli by Lassen’s Natural Foods & Vitamins, a California chain. Per the union, workers contacted UFCW Local 367 after experiencing numerous changes implemented by Lassen’s, including reduced store hours, decreased paid time off, eliminated holiday pay, and changes to healthcare benefits. Workers were concerned about poor communication, lack of support, and inadequate training on new systems introduced by Lassen’s.

Workers at Marlene’s posed for a photo during their organizing drive. Photo: UFCW Local 367

Now, despite months at the table, talks have stalled over scheduling and seniority language in the contract. While there has been some headway made around wages, workers would like to see more compensation included, to reflect the cost of living in the Puget Sound. Also at issue is a lengthy management clause, currently more than two pages long. The workers want to see that language streamlined, seeing it as excessive.

Another sticking point is paid time off; currently, the company gives the workers little time off and also combines sick leave with vacation time. Workers are pushing for a reasonable PTO bank, ensuring they can take leave to care for their health when needed and not sacrifice time off with their families. Adequate paid sick leave for is not just essential for grocery workers’ wellbeing — it’s also a boon for public health, as grocery workers interact directly with dozens of customers every day.

With little movement in recent months, workers are calling on supporters to help keep up the pressure on the company to negotiate in good faith.

TAKE A STAND: Sign the workers’ petition to Marlene’s management urging the company to respect the workers and bargain in good faith.