Save Mart 'Rebalancing Hours' at 2 Stores

SN STAFF

MODESTO, Calif. — Save Mart Supermarkets here said it is rebalancing labor hours to sales in eliminating 56 positions at two stores and asking 99 other employes to be transferred, accept demotions or switch from full-time to part-time status.

The rebalancing follows the chain's decision to replace two Lucky Stores with the chain's Food Maxx format.

"These were not job cuts," Alicia Rockwell, the chain's spokeswoman, told SN. "It was a rebalancing of labor hours to current sales, in accordance with our collective bargaining agreement with United Food and Commerical Workers Union Local 5 and business needs.

"As with most large grocers today, Save Mart is leaving 'no rock unturned' in our drive to protect market share and long-term profitability. We have taken opportunities such as leveraging alternative formats and value-oriented marketing promotions with the goal to best meet customer needs and drive sales. We are confident the actions we are taking will position us toward successful growth in the future."