FAQs Answered by Chris Albi

1. Why did Part A of the Company’s Comprehensive Offer expire?
That incentive is gone or “expired” because there was no deal reached.  The Union severely limited its availability to meet and made no meaningful attempts to secure a deal for our Colorado associates.  Local 7 seems to continue to care more about what other Local unions in California and Washington want.

2. The Union claims the current offer is illegal because we “took money off the table.” Is that accurate?
No.  The Union is wrong.  King Soopers made a lawful incentive offer, clearly tied to a date by which we wanted new deals done. That’s permitted under federal labor law. The Union is making false accusations in an attempt to distract you from its own failures to act or bargain in good faith for new contracts.

3. Why hasn’t the company offered a wage proposal that factors in inflation and how much our competition pay their employees?
We regularly compare our total compensation package—including wages, health care, and retirement—to competitors and believe it remains strong and competitive.

4. The Union says the Company is proposing to take money from Retiree Healthcare to pay for wage increases. Is this true?

No, this is not true. Our Retiree Healthcare has more than enough money to pay for healthcare claims for the next three years. Our proposal acknowledges that while additional investments into Retiree Healthcare are not needed at this time, investments are needed to the Active Associate Healthcare fund. The simple truth is our healthcare proposal helps keep associate healthcare premiums among the lowest in Colorado.

5. Can both sides come together, keep talking, and reach a fair deal on wages, pension, and health care?
We agree that reaching an agreement as soon as possible is extremely important. The company has consistently taken serious steps toward reaching an agreement and we remain ready to bargain, but we believe the Union has not consistently demonstrated a good faith effort to reach a timely agreement.

6. Why does the company continue to use robocalls?
We use robocalls because they allow us to quickly reach as many associates as possible with important updates—especially during fast-moving situations like negotiations. It’s one of several tools we use to keep you informed, along with in-store posters, handouts, videos, and the website. Our goal is to make sure you have the information you need, when you need it.

7. I asked the Union about switching from a pension to a 401(k), but they ignored me. I think a 401(k) would help me save better for retirement. Can I choose that instead?
Retirement benefits are part of your union contract, so changes like switching to a 401(k) would need to be negotiated with the union.

All King Soopers/City Market associates can contribute to a 401(k) plan on their own, even though there would not be a company match. Taking advantage of both the pension and the 401(k) options available to you could be a smart way to build toward a stronger retirement. Your District HR Leader has more information about how you can enroll in the company’s 401(k) plan.

8. I work in Pickup, what should I do if I want more hours at my store?
We know many of you are eager to contribute more and pick up additional hours—and we truly appreciate that commitment. Pickup hours are scheduled based on forecasted demand, but sometimes those forecasts may not align perfectly. That’s why store leaders are being asked to keep a closer eye on hours and staffing needs. If your store is over-scheduled in one area, your leader can shift support to Pickup where it’s needed.

If you’re interested in picking up more hours, talk with your store leader. They’ll help you identify areas in the store where your time and talents can make a difference.

9. Why is this taking so long? Union workers are falling behind, and we haven’t seen the raises or retro pay we were promised. Does the Company even care?
We understand your frustration. We’ve made repeated efforts to reach a timely agreement, but the Union has focused on outside agendas that don’t reflect a sense of urgency for getting a deal for Colorado associates. It is important to note retro pay is not included in the company’s comprehensive offer.

10. Can employees request a federal mediator to help both sides reach an agreement?
We understand your frustration and appreciate your persistence. The Company did try to involve a federal mediator, but the Union declined. Both parties must agree to mediation—neither side can require it on their own.

11. I’m frustrated. The Company and Union are not making progress, and associates are the ones losing money. Why is this process taking so long?
We understand how discouraging this is. The Company has made every effort to reach a fair agreement, including competitive wage offers and proposals to address Union staffing concerns, but we believe Local 7 leaders are not committed to reaching an agreement as soon as possible.

12. What happens if the Union does not return to the table?
We remain hopeful that the Union will choose to return to the bargaining table with a genuine intent to reach a fair agreement. Our associates deserve a timely resolution—not delays driven by outside agendas. We believe the best path forward is one focused on collaboration and outcomes that truly serve the people who work in our stores every day.