PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Thursday is the second day of the strike at Fred Meyer. Some pickets even stayed overnight, causing some Fred Meyer stores to open two hours later.
The workers claim that the deals are in breach of the Labour Relations Act during collective bargaining.
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KATU’s Wesligh Ogle went to Fred Meyer in the Hollywood District to listen to strikers and see the conditions.
She said there was a sign at the entrance saying they were hiring temporary workers during the strike.
Picketers told KATU they would encourage customers to go to other stores, such as Safeway and Albertsons, and would try to stop truck drivers from delivering goods.
They had no success with the truck drivers, but yesterday the delicatessen, the butcher’s shop and the bakery were all closed.
Commenting on the strike, Fred Meyer President said, “The company believes that employees should have a say in deciding what is right for them and their families, as the bargaining process ultimately impacts their pay.”
He also said the company wants to put more money in the pockets of its employees, but that both sides will have to return to the negotiating table for the rest of the week until an agreement is reached.
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The strike is scheduled to last until 8 a.m. on September 3 at 28 stores in the Portland area.
