Watch CBS News

Raley's Workers Vote To Authorize Strike

WEST SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - Workers at a local grocery chain have authorized a strike if continued negotiations don't result in a new contract.

According to the Raley's employee union, eight out of 10 workers voted in support of authorizing a strike. Specific numbers weren't provided by United and Food and Commercial Workers Local 8. Union members began voting on Friday

Raley's spokesman John Segale said the West Sacramento-based grocery chain thought the number was closer to 70 percent and that store officials were pleased to see so many workers vote no.

Raley's is seeking greater contributions from employees toward their health care benefits and other concessions it says are necessary for the grocery chain to stay competitive with non-union stores.

Raley's has been negotiating with the union for nearly nine months now.

Another bargaining session is planned for Friday.

Segale says Raley's has a contingency plan if workers strike and that customers wouldn't be affected.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.