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UNIONS SET TO STRIKE STORES IN CALIFORNIA, NEW JERSEY

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Representatives from nine local chapters of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union were scheduled to meet here late last week to discuss strategy for a strike set to begin at midnight Sept. 8 at more than 300 supermarkets in northern California operated by Albertson's, Boise, Idaho, and Safeway, Pleasanton, Calif. The unions, which represent more than 22,000 retail clerks

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Representatives from nine local chapters of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union were scheduled to meet here late last week to discuss strategy for a strike set to begin at midnight Sept. 8 at more than 300 supermarkets in northern California operated by Albertson's, Boise, Idaho, and Safeway, Pleasanton, Calif. The unions, which represent more than 22,000 retail clerks and meat cutters, said they are seeking wage increases of up to $1.50 per hour, maintenance of health benefits and also the creation of more full-time job opportunities.

n each year, pension increases and improved health benefits, according to Jack L. Loveall, local president. A spokesman for Raley's was unavailable for comment.

On the other side of the country, the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1360, West Berlin, N.J., said late last week it had urged its more than 1,000 members who work at Zallies and Ravits ShopRite stores in southern New Jersey to reject the contract offered to them and go out on strike.

The main sticking point is benefits, with ShopRite offering full benefits coverage for only the first year of the contract, according to Clay Bowman, local president. "After that, all they offer are increases that will not cover the benefit costs in the last three years of the contract. This was nothing more than a last-ditch attempt to buy off our members with a promise that still leaves the last three years of their health benefits in jeopardy," Bowman said.

ShopRite could not be reached for comment.