PCC Markets Changes Course in Seattle, Offers Temporary Hazard Pay Raise

Less than a week after Seattle-based PCC Community Markets President and CEO Suzy Monford penned a letter to Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan urging the city not to pass a hazard pay ordinance that “disproportionately harms local, independent grocers,” PCC has submitted a proposal to the United Foods and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 21 that would institute a $4-per-hour temporary appreciation pay for all union-represented staff in the Puget Sound area—not just those in locations with regional hazard pay ordinances—in exchange for “certain non-economic concessions” unspecified by the company.

At the time PCC issued the release announcing the temporary hazard pay raise, the co-op and the union had not been able to reach a final decision.

 “Staff members are the heart of the co-op. The PCC leadership team, board of trustees and I remain focused on doing what’s right for our teammates,” said Monford in a statement. “We recognize that our actions reflect our co-op’s values and are working to provide equitable treatment to all of our staff.”

PCC said it is also increasing its efforts to expand access to vaccines for its staff. The co-op is talking to state and local government officials to prioritize available vaccines for front-line grocery workers. PCC is also providing KN95 masks to all staff and the co-op’s “no mask, no entry” policy remains in place, the co-op said.

While compensation and access to the vaccine are important, so too is medical care, PCC said. The co-op offers its staff members a range of medical, dental and mental health benefits.