(ROSEVILLE, CALIFORNIA) – United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) 8/Golden State, along with UFCW Locals 5 and 648, has reached a tentative contract agreement with Albertsons Companies, the parent company of Safeway and Vons Grocery Stores.

The new deal delivers economic security, health care and pension improvements for 25,000 Albertsons, Safeway, and Vons Members, Union Officials said.

“This agreement is the result of our Members standing strong together,” UFCW 8/Golden State President Jacques Loveall said. “Because of their unity and determination, this new agreement will bring them the respect and dignity they deserve. These Workers are more than the backbone of these companies - they are part of the fabric of our communities and their efforts drive our shared success.”

The tentative agreement includes: Meaningful wage increases; A fortified and secure retirement plan; Properly funded health care benefits; and Strong job protection language for a safer and more respectful work environment, the UFCW said.

This breakthrough follows five months of intensive negotiations, round-the-clock bargaining sessions in the final days, and the threat of a walkout involving more than 25,000 Grocery Workers from the Grapevine to the Oregon Border.

UFCW 8/Golden State Members who work in Albertsons and Vons locations in Kern, Inyo and Mono Counties are covered under a separate expired contract, but also have a new tentative agreement.

Union Leaders were confident UFCW Members will recognize the value of the improvements gained through their solidarity and will distribute details about the ratification process in the coming days.

“We’re deeply grateful to the customers we serve for their unwavering support. Your encouragement gave our Members strength, resolve and the confidence to stand united. We were never alone thanks to you,” Loveall said.

Additional details about the agreement will be shared following the ratification vote, Union Officials said.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: Albertsons, Safeway, and Vons Workers Reach Tentative Agreement, Avoid Historic Strike – UFCW 8-Golden State