COLUMBUS, Ohio — Thousands of Kroger’s employees in Columbus are preparing to go on strike after union negotiations stalled following talks last week.
Kroger executives submitted what they called their “last best final offer.” The deal was reportedly rejected by members of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union. Nearly 7,000 union members rejected the proposed offer.
Kroger Columbus Division President Dana Zurcher said, “We have two objectives for these contract negotiations: to invest more money in our associates’ paychecks and keep groceries affordable for our customers,” said Dana Zurcher, president of the Kroger Columbus division. Our contract adds to our associates’ paychecks while providing them with premium health care coverage and a company-funded pension – which many of our competitors do not offer.”
The company says its most recent offer invests more than $120 million in new wages over the next three years.
In a press release, Kroger’s executives said a cashier currently making $17.10 an hour would see a $0.65 increase this year, a $0.50 increase in 2023, and a $0.65 increase by 2024.
Union representatives say they are still open to continued discussions.