Local union rescinds endorsement of Kroger-Albertsons merger | News [Video]

EUGENE, Ore — Initially, United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 555 was very supportive of the possibility of a merger between Fred Meyer and Albertsons. However, new questions in regards to workers wages and welfare have come up. 

The union has officially rescinded its endorsement of the merger. Their chief concerns deal with their members’ wages, healthcare and retirement plans. As part of the merger deal, Fred Meyer is offering to increase wages and offer a one time bonus. In total it would be a $37 million investment by the company.

However, the wages, according to union spokesman Miles Eshaia, are simply not enough for workers in Oregon. The union also said that to cover the increase in wages, the company would take …