Union leaders and officials for Albertsons, Vons and Ralphs will join a federal mediator today to hammer out a contract in a last-ditch effort to thwart a second strike in less than 10 years.
When the last strike ended in February 2004, grocers had lost an estimated $1.5 billion while dozens of union workers depleted their savings to pay bills. Today, the stakes are much higher for both sides.
"During the last strike, it was the best of times in Orange County. Now it is the worst of times," grocery strategist Burt P. Flickinger said.
A strike could backfire on union members, who are likely to face unsympathetic shoppers toughened by their own economic hardships.
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