| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 29, 2001 |
Contact: Jill Cashen, UFCW, at (202) 728-4797 or email press@ufcw.org. To reach UFCW Local 1564, call (505) 262-1986 or UFCW Local 540 in El Paso, call (915) 593-7892. |
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Food and Commercial Workers Demands Fleming Respects Workers' Rights
Furrs workers made their voices heard loud and clear during the auction of their company on Wednesday. Rallying outside the auction, workers told the bidding companies?we are Furrs' greatest asset and want to continue our service. The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), is continuing the battle for recognition of the 4,000 workers' jobs. In a letter sent to the CEO of Fleming, UFCW International President Doug Dority wrote, "These employees have always been an asset to Furrs and to the communities in which the stores are located. They have loyally served Furrs in the past and look forward to working in the more stable financial environment that your company brings directly to those stores you choose to own, and indirectly to those stores you choose to sell and serve as the wholesaler." Fleming has indicated that it is under no obligation to honor the union contract at the 66 Furrs stores. The UFCW, however, is launching a community campaign for recognition of the workers' jobs and benefits by the new owner. "The UFCW International is pursuing every legal channel available, as well as mobilizing members and the community to protect the jobs and working standards for the Furrs workers," said Shaun Barclay, UFCW Region 5 Director. Through member mobilization and community support, the UFCW will remind Fleming that the workers deserve job stability and recognition. |
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