With Election Day fast approaching on November 5th, it's crucial to remember the significant impact that each and every vote can have on shaping our future. Despite the common myth that a single vote doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things, the reality is quite the opposite. Whether it's a local council election or a national presidential race, your vote carries weight and can sway the results in unexpected ways. Five Compelling Reasons to Cast Your Vote 1. Actively voting protects your voter rights. Voting is not just a privilege but a fundamental right that ensures your voice is heard in the democratic process. By exercising your right to vote, you actively participate in upholding and safeguarding your voter rights. 2. Your daily life and your family's future are impacted. The decisions made by elected officials can directly influence various aspects of our daily lives, from healthcare and education to job opportunities and environmental policies. By voting, you have a say in shaping the future for yourself and your loved ones. 3. One vote can decide it all. History has shown us numerous instances where elections were decided by a handful of votes. Each vote cast has the potential to tip the scales in favor of one candidate over another, making your participation in the electoral process more crucial than ever. 4. Decide how your money is spent. Elected officials determine how public funding is allocated and utilized. By voting, you have a say in how taxpayer money is spent on critical areas such as infrastructure, social welfare programs, and public services that impact your community directly. 5. Be a voice for those who cannot vote. Many individuals, past and present, have fought tirelessly for the right to vote. By casting your ballot, you not only honor their legacy but also become a voice for marginalized communities, ensuring that their interests and concerns are represented in the democratic process. Check Your Voter Registration Status Today! As we gear up for Election Day, it's paramount that you confirm your voter registration status and ensure that your voice is counted. Visit www.votewa.gov to verify your registration details and make sure you are ready to exercise your civic duty on November 5th. Remember, voting is a powerful tool for driving change and shaping the future of our society. Every vote counts, and each one contributes to building a more inclusive and democratic community for all. So, let's make our voices heard and stand together as changemakers in this upcoming election. Imagine the impact we can create when each vote is considered, every voice is valued, and change is championed by all.

A MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT HINES As we welcome the new year, it’s important to reflect on our progress as a Union. Since I began serving as your president in 2021, I have learned that success and growth are rarely a straight line. Building a member-driven organization capable of challenging corporate greed comes with its share of challenges. We face resistance from employers digging in their heels, allies choosing compromise over confrontation, and even internal pressures to maintain the status quo. But there is no growth without change, and there is no change without courage. UFCW Local 367, with just 20 Union Hall staff and 21 Executive Board members, continues to punch above its weight. In 2024, our primary focus was on organizing a militant minority of 5% worksite leaders in preparation for next spring’s big grocery negotiations. I’m proud to report that we have surpassed this goal, and member engagement is at an all-time high. Representatives have been running MET meetings throughout our jurisdiction, while our organizers have spearheaded the Workers’ Bill of Rights policy to ensure better scheduling, safer workplaces, and higher wages. Through our coalition “South Sound Rising,” we have expanded our reach and impact. This year, we launched an Organizing School to equip members with the knowledge and skills necessary to build a powerful working class in our region. Together, we are creating the momentum needed to push back against corporate overreach and secure a brighter future for workers. This commitment to progress extends to our Union’s infrastructure. This past October, UFCW Local 367 closed on the historic Fire St ation #4 in d owntown Tacoma. This new location provides not only immediate space but also room to grow, along with tenant income to support our initiatives. The attached warehouse has been approved for conversion into a 500-seat auditorium with an attached kitchen and classroom for a revised Meat Apprenticeship program. We anticipate the completion of the auditorium in phase one of the project by next fall. This new hall and auditorium will add tremendous value to UFCW 367, serving as a hub of union activity and a beacon for the labor movement in the area. One of the most significant challenges this year was the proposed Albertsons-Kroger merger. UFCW Local 367, along with allies across Washington State, fought tirelessly to protect our members and communities from its harmful impacts. This merger threatened to reduce competition, drive up grocery prices, and limit shopping options for Washington families. Thanks to the efforts of Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson and the solidarity of unions and community members, a King County judge issued a permanent injunction blocking the merger. The judge’s decision declared the merger unlawful, emphasizing that the competition between Kroger and Albertsons benefits Washington consumers and workers. This victory is a monumental win for our members and all Washingtonians. It reinforces the power of standing together to challenge corporate consolidation and fight for fair competition that protects workers and families alike. As we look ahead, there are more exciting announcements on the horizon that I can’t wait to share. For now, I wish you all a safe and joyful holiday season spent with family, friends, and co-workers. I’ll see you in the stores in 2025. Happy Holidays! Michael Hines President, UFCW Local 367

Workers at Marlene’s Market & Deli  in Tacoma  are taking steps to join UFCW Local 367 , filing for a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) election  to seek union representation. This comes after recent changes by the store's new owner, Lassens Natural Foods & Vitamins , a California-based chain that acquired Marlene’s Tacoma and Federal Way locations in November 2024 . Employees cite reduced store hours, decreased paid time off, and changes to healthcare benefits as key reasons for organizing. The decision to close the store on Sundays has also impacted both worker schedules and customer shopping habits. “We need a strong voice and deserve livable wages and affordable, quality healthcare,” said Monica Poole , a 10-year employee at the Tacoma store. Workers like Joe Kennedy  and Rabeca Reynolds  also emphasized the need for better pay, improved training, and a stronger role in workplace decisions . The unionization efforts reflect UFCW 367’s ongoing mission to support workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Read more about the organizing efforts in the Tacoma News Tribune article here .

Progress Toward a Strong First Contract UFCW 367 and Marlene’s Market & Deli returned to the bargaining table on June 9, 2025 , continuing negotiations for a first union contract  covering workers at the Tacoma location. We’re making steady progress toward securing meaningful rights, protections, and improvements—and we’re committed to keeping you updated every step of the way. 📄 Key Bargaining Updates UFCW 367 Full Proposal We’ve shared a working draft of our tentative agreement. This document outlines critical provisions, including: Union recognition Just cause protections Guaranteed wages Paid time off for all hours worked And more Employer Full Proposal:  A full proposal from the employer has been presented, which we are currently reviewing and assessing with the bargaining team. Click below to review the documents: We will continue fighting for a fair first contract that reflects the hard work, values, and voices of every Marlene’s worker. Next Steps: Stay Engaged Upcoming Contract Action Team Meeting 📅 Date:  Sunday, June 29 ⏰ Time:  1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Location:  UFCW 367 Union Hall222 E 26th Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 Your participation is essential as we fight for a fair contract that reflects the hard work, values, and voices of every Marlene’s worker. 📞 Questions or Want to Get Involved? Contact Union Representative, Patty Estes 📱Call/Text: (253) 906-8354 More updates to come soon— stay union strong!

Groundbreaking Progress Won by Member Action Big news out of UFCW 367’s tenth bargaining session: After late-night negotiations, the UFCW 367’s Pierce County Grocery and Meat Bargaining Team has tentative agreements on significant improvements to hours, scheduling, and workplace safety. These breakthroughs are the direct result of months of action, advocacy, and solidarity from workers and community supporters alike. ✅ No more hour cuts due to new hires ✅ Stronger rights for current employees to receive hours before new hires ✅ NO mandatory self-checkout ratios , 1 member per 10 machines? Not on our watch. ✅ The strongest safety committee language in the region , now store-level staffing concerns must be addressed within 10 days (not quarterly!) Read the full Staffing & Seniority/Scheduling Tentative Agreement (6.26.25) below 👇 These are major wins, not just for our members, but for the standards we’re setting across the South Sound. It was bold member action that made this breakthrough possible.  From packing the room at Open Bargaining sessions, to gathering signatures for the Workers’ Bill of Rights, to overwhelmingly authorizing an Unfair Labor Practice strike, your dedication and organizing have made all the difference. Because of these tentative agreements, we are withdrawing our Unfair Labor Practice charges . That means no ULP strike, for now . But we’re not done yet. There’s still more to fight for! Let’s stay focused, stay united, and keep the momentum going. 📄 Review the Tentative Agreement👇👇👇 What’s Next: 📅 Next Closed Bargaining Session: July 1 Let’s keep showing employers what we’re capable of when we stand together. #WageUpStaffUp #UFCW367 #FairContractNow #UnionStrong #MemberDriven367 #SouthSoundRising

On June 17, UFCW 367 hosted a Virtual Town Hall to update grocery and meat members on where negotiations stand and to answer important questions about the Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) Strike. With members from the South Sound listening in, our bargaining team discussed the most recent employer proposals, outlined what is at risk, and explained the process of a ULP strike, along with the next steps if action becomes necessary. Members also had the chance to ask questions and receive direct responses from union staff and leadership. 💪 The message was loud and clear: We’re united, strike-ready, and we’re not backing down. ▶️ Watch the full Town Hall video below to get caught up and stay informed. 📝 Sign Up for ULP Strike Shifts Be ready to take action. Fill out the ULP Strike Sign-Up Sheet  below to let us know when you're available to join a strike line if necessary. ⚠️ Disclaimer:  This is a preliminary sign-up. Dates and locations are TBD and will be finalized in the event of a ULP strike. 🔗 Click here to sign up #WageUpStaffUp #FairContractNow #UFCW367 #ULPStrike #MemberDriven367 #UnionStrong #SouthSoundRising

On June 16 , your UFCW 367 bargaining team returned to the table for our ninth session with Kroger and Safeway/Albertsons. We had constructive conversations with Kroger , focused on improving hours and scheduling, especially around call-outs and access to 8-hour shifts . But Safeway/Albertsons and Allied Employers (the council for the employers) showed up empty-handed again.  Since December , we’ve been asking the same questions, and they’re still refusing to answer. “We have asked numerous times for scheduling information, from December to now. Our questions are not difficult, yet we STILL don’t have answers. SWY/ALB does not want to talk to us. They don’t want to be questioned. They just want to say how it’s going to be and YOU have to accept it.”— CJ Schneidt , SWY 1645 Bargaining Committee Member / Executive Board VP #1 This behavior isn’t just disrespectful — it’s a deliberate delay tactic. But make no mistake, we see it, and we’re responding with action. What We're Fighting For: Fair and predictable scheduling Real wage increases that keep up with the cost of living Employer accountability and transparency What’s Next: Next Closed Bargaining Session – June 26 We’re returning to the table next week with the same strength, determination, and unity that brought us this far. In the meantime, keep the pressure on: Attend Contract Action Team meetings Talk to your coworkers Stay strike-ready We know our worth, and we won’t settle for anything less than the respect we’ve earned. #WageUpStaffUp #SouthSoundRising #UFCW367 #FairContractNow #MemberDriven367 #UnionStrong

We are united. We demand respect. And we are ready to take action. On June 5, UFCW 367 grocery and meat workers in Pierce County voted by 97% YES to authorize an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike against Fred Meyer, QFC, Safeway, and Albertsons. This vote marks a powerful step forward in our fight for fair treatment. This strike would impact 37 stores and nearly 4,500 union workers across Pierce County if called. This Vote Sends a Clear Message: We will not tolerate disrespect, and we will not be ignored at the bargaining table. Our message is clear: these employers must follow the law, negotiate in good faith, and recognize the essential workers who keep their stores running and their profits soaring. From Lakewood to Puyallup to Tacoma, UFCW 367 members turned out in force to cast their votes, standing shoulder to shoulder in unity and purpose. 📰 In the News: Our Vote Made Headlines Check out this article from The Tacoma News Tribune  covering our 97% YES vote to authorize a ULP strike and what it means for grocery workers across Pierce County. 👉 Read it here: Pierce County area grocery workers authorize strike against Kroger, Albertsons stores The press is paying attention — and so are our communities. 📢 Stay informed. Stay active. Stay union strong.

✊ The Pressure’s On — and We’re Not Backing Down Day 6 at the bargaining table, and Kroger and Albertsons are still playing games.  They continue to withhold critical information  our team needs to bargain effectively, and the proposals they did bring were nothing more than half-hearted gestures. Let’s be clear: this is not how you treat essential workers. We’ve made our non-economic proposals crystal clear — and while the employer responded and offered some modest movement with a few tentative agreements, their overall posture says it all: they care more about profits than the people who make those profits possible. We see right through it! 🎥 Watch the May 29 Video Update Hear directly from your UFCW 367 Bargaining Team about what happened at the table, how we’re pushing back, and what’s next. It’s Time to Turn Up the Heat: June 5 ULP Strike Vote + Open Bargaining We’re calling for a ULP Strike Authorization Vote on Thursday, June 5.  It’s time to show these employers that we’re done with delays, done with disrespect, and ready to take action. Vote Info :🗓️ Thursday, June 5 🔗 Click here for full vote details and locations → That same day, we’re holding Open Bargaining at the Tacoma Convention Center  — and we want the room packed with members and allies. Let’s show them who really runs these stores — US. 🔗 RSVP + Details for Open Bargaining on June 5 → We’re Not Done — We’re Just Getting Louder From store actions and leafleting to digital campaigns and community mobilization, UFCW 367 members are taking this fight to every corner of the South Sound. Let’s keep the momentum going: louder, stronger, and more united than ever. Stay Ready. Stay Informed. Stay United. #WageUpStaffUp #UFCW367 #WorkersBillOfRights #SouthSoundRising #UnionStrong

UFCW 367 Members Are Back at the Table and More United Than Ever 🎥 Looking for the latest video update and proposal documents? Scroll to the bottom of this post to hear directly from your bargaining team and read the latest proposals. After five long bargaining sessions, Kroger and Albertsons finally returned with an offer. But what they brought wasn’t a step forward; it was a slap in the face. Here's What They Proposed: 🚫 No Retro Pay Their proposed “$1 raise” wouldn’t take effect until the day after ratification. That means none of the hard-earned time you've already worked would be compensated . That’s money lost. 📉 Weak Raises in Future Years They’re offering just 50¢ in year two and another 50¢ in year three . In today’s economy, that’s a pay cut disguised as a raise . 💼 A Risky Pension Proposal Rather than investing more into the VAP pension, the employers want to pull money from the Sound Retirement Trust , a fund that’s currently performing well. Draining a successful fund? Not sustainable. Not acceptable. ⚠️ Ignored Concerns Around Overtime & Job Classifications They refuse to move on crucial protections, including overtime and split shifts. Worse, they want to force Grocery APC Clerks to handle meat products , a clear safety risk and classification overreach. ✊ We Called It What It Is: Bad Faith Bargaining The employers have delayed, stalled, and refused to provide the basic information needed  to move negotiations forward. That’s not bargaining, it’s disrespect.  And we won’t stand for it. 🔥 We’re Fighting Back And It’s Working Since April, UFCW 367 members have been out in full force: Informational picketing outside key stores Distributing leaflets to customers and community supporters Turning up the volume on social media Mobilizing allies to apply public pressure The employers feel the heat, and we’re not backing down. 🎥 Watch the Latest Video Update Click below to hear directly from your bargaining team about where things stand and how we keep building power together. Read the Latest Proposals & Responses👇👇👇 Stay informed and see for yourself what’s on the table: 🗣️ We’re Not Stopping Until We Win a Contract That Reflects Our Value This fight is far from over — but we’re stronger, louder, and more united than ever before. #WageUpStaffUP #WorkersBillOfRights #UFCW367 #SouthSoundRising