California Teamsters Strike at Smart & Final After Alleging Nearly 100 Violations of Federal Labor Law

https://teamster.org/2024/06/california-teamsters-strike-at-smart-final-after-alleging-nearly-100-violations-of-federal-labor-law/

2024.06.19

Over 600 Workers Walk Out at Smart & Final Distribution Centers in Riverside and Commerce

Press Contact: Christian Castro Phone: (310) 857-9817 Email: ccastro@teamstersjc42.org

(LOS ANGELES) – Over 600 warehouse workers represented by Teamsters Local 630 at two Chedraui-owned Smart & Final grocery store warehouses in Southern California went on an unfair labor strike today, protesting mass layoffs and other unfair labor practices.

Without these long-time, hard-working employees, Smart & Final could experience massive supply chain disruptions during one of the busiest shopping times of the year. Smart & Final refuses to comply with the law and continues to move forward with its unlawful plan to terminate all these employees and transfer their work to a new facility.

“The clock is ticking for Chedraui/Smart & Final to make things right,” said Lou Villalvazo, Teamsters Local 630 Secretary-Treasurer. “The company is continuing to commit unfair labor practices without any regard for its workers. With the busy summer months approaching, the company faces not just a moral but a logistical crisis. They need to act now to guarantee our members their jobs, decent wages, respect and a fair contract. We will not stand by and watch these workers be exploited.”

“No one wants to strike,” said Juan Fernandez, 24-year veteran at Smart & Final. “It’s the last thing we thought we’d have to do. But when our jobs, our families’ futures, and our dignity are on the line, we have no choice. This is the only option Chedraui/Smart & Final has left us to safeguard our livelihoods from a company that seems to have forgotten who keeps it running.”

FULL story at link above.