MONTVALE, N.J. — A&P has asked union workers for a five-year wage freeze; substantial reductions in premium pay and holidays; changes in health and pension programs; and more control over workplace rules as part of negotiations for new contracts, union sources said.
The retailer, in Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, made the proposals part of its opening offer to 13 union locals, most represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers.
Bruce W. Both, president of Local 1500, Westbury, N.Y., in a note to members cautioned that the proposals were a starting point in negotiations. “While we must hope for and work towards the best possible solution, we must prepare for the worst possible result,” Both said.
