Upcoming union contract negotiations with Meijer could affect thousands

United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 951 will be pushing for higher wages and improved benefits for more than 28,000 Meijer workers during contract negotiations scheduled to begin next week.

The union — which represents essential workers in retail, transportation and distribution at the Michigan-based supermarket chain — will begin contract bargaining for a new deal on Oct. 11.

“As we begin negotiations, we have made it very clear to Meijer we want a strong contract for our members,” said John Cakmakci, UFCW 951 president, in a statement. “Our members, as essential workers, have endured a lot over the past three years and believe it is now their turn to share in the healthy profits their employer recorded during, and following, the pandemic.

“Workers across the country, in a wide variety of industries, are taking a stand and demanding the wages, benefits, and working conditions they deserve, and our members are no exception.” 

Significant wage increases, additional paid time off and more affordable medical plans are among the focus of union leaders going into the contract negotiations, which will take place amid ongoing UAW strikes against Detroit’s Big Three automakers and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan with similar goals.

“The public support for unions and striking workers is at a near all-time high,” said Cakmakci. “After years of making sacrifices, putting their lives on the line each day as essential workers, and watching CEO’s and shareholders reap the rewards, workers are rightfully demanding their fair share.”