We are still discussing important issues regarding your wages, health care and pension. But nothing is final, and progress is slow.

That's why we need to prepare for every possibility, and that means preparing for a strike or a lockout. You will soon hear in the media or on the news that your union is preparing for a strike or a lockout.

This doesn't mean that we're going on strike. We are still officially in negotiations and our top priority is to get a fair contract at the bargaining table, but we do not plan to be caught off guard if the employers force a work stoppage.

Getting a contract without a job action is and always has been our top priority. But management will stall and try to force a bad deal on us -- just like they did in 2003.

That's why we have to be ready for anything.

The good news is that this time is different than 2003. We are in command of the message to the public. We have 50,000 consumers that have pledged not to shop at Ralphs, Vons and Albertsons if there is a strike or lockout. And we have a model agreement with Stater Bros and Gelsons that proves it is possible for the employers to offer us a fair contract.

We can do this. But only if we stick together and stand strong.

We'll continue to update you on new developments, and in the meantime know that your union's top priority is to negotiate a fair contract at the bargaining table.

Thank you for your hard work and support,

UFCW Contract Campaign Team

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