message from the president


Solidarity Now, More Than Ever!

The first half of 2011 has proven to be rough for our Union as the A&P bankruptcy situation has been ongoing since the end of last year. Over the past few months, we have seen A&P choose to give their top executives millions of dollars in bonuses while ignoring their responsibilities to their customers and their hard working employees, our members. Early proposals from the company have confirmed what we already knew; A&P is seeking to resolve their own financial problems by undermining our contracts and placing the burden of their recovery solely on our members.
 
It is easy to remain united when things are going well. In normal contract negotiations, you are typically provided with wage and pension contribution increases, as well as the renewal of your benefits and job protections. However, it is clear that things are far from normal. The negotiations with A&P are an arduous task for us all and will continue to be for the next few weeks and possibly months.
 
The A&P bankruptcy is also having another unfortunate side effect. Other employers, with whom we are in contract negotiations with, are also demanding a certain degree of concessions. These companies are being opportunistic in their hopes to benefit from the A&P bankruptcy, while simultaneously hurting our members.
 
With pressure from employers, rumors circulating in the stores, and members who either do not understand or ignore the severity of our current situation, it is easy to take the easy road. It is important to remember that Unity and Solidarity are the main weapons we have to use against A&P and all of the employers. Together, we can put pressure on the companies to recognize that our members deserve dignity and respect along with safe working conditions and benefits. We are willing to work towards reaching a fair agreement with them, but we are unwilling to be taken advantage of.
 
We are still uncertain of what will come with the A&P situation as negotiations are moving slowly. As a result, we continue to hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. If we are pushed to the point of a job action, we must have the full support and involvement from ALL our members. Should only a small percentage participate, we are giving A&P a reason not to negotiate with the union because they know there will be no repercussions. No matter what happens we must show A&P and other employers that the Union and our members are united and determined to have our voices heard.
 
The Union is only as powerful as you make it and there is always strength in numbers. If you choose to take an active role, even by just wearing your Local 338 hats, shirts, and buttons, you are bettering the situation for all of our members. In good times and bad, we must be united as the job you save may very well be your own.  
 
Remember to check our website regularly and be sure to sign up for our email blasts, even if you do not work for A&P, we send out frequent updates in regards to upcoming events, Membership Meetings and negotiations with all of our employers. Please encourage your coworkers to do the same.
 
I hope you and your family have a happy and healthy summer!