News

Workers at River Market Co-op in Stillwater, MN joined UFCW Local 1189 for a better life on May 20. River Market Co-op is the third co-op in Minnesota to join Local 1189. Whole Foods Co-op in Duluth, Wedge in Minneapolis, and the Co-op Partners Warehouse in St. Paul are all represented by UFCW 1189.

What we all have witnessed across the Twin Cites over these last few days is beyond tragic. 

I know many of you are rightfully angry about the injustice we have all witnessed.  I also know many of you are worried and scared given the unrest we are now witnessing in response—especially those whose stores have been impacted, even destroyed. Please know this—that as difficult as it may be to see right now, we will get through this. Our community will recover, heal, and rebuild.  And I want you to know your Union is here for you, and to help you, and address your concerns or questions. 

A tentative agreement has been reached with Whole Foods Co-Op.  A ratification vote will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at both stores.  Click on the link below to view the tentative agreement, which comes with full committee recommendation.  If you have any questions, please contact Union Representative Bruce Bergh.

Members are feeling relieved as Retail Meat and Grocery Employers agree to allow for workers to wear masks and are providing gloves at all of our Union Grocery stores. Initial concerns that the community would think our members were working sick, have been replaced by the willingness to do what is necessary to protect the workers. As plexiglass barriers find their way into the check stands, UFCW Local 1189 has been working with our employers to update policies and protect our members. Union Members in virtually all of of the industries we represent have been deemed essential.