A Statement from President Bruce W. Both; Re: Pathmark Store Closings

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It is with much dejection to announce that UFCW Local 1500 has been notified by A&P / Pathmark that they will be closing three stores that employ members of UFCW Local 1500: Commack, Long Island; Hartsdale, New York  and Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn. These stores are part of larger plan by A&P to close 32 stores in six states.

Company executives have listed the stores as "under-performing” and decided that these closings were necessary in order to demonstrate a strong solid Turnaround Plan in order to rebound from Chapter 11.

The following is a statement from UFCW Local 1500 President Bruce W. Both:

 “The loss of just one union member is one loss too many.  Local 1500 leadership is deeply troubled by today’s announcement and will aggressively enforce our collective bargaining agreement.  While we are all disappointed by today’s announcement, it should not come as a shock as we know that A&P/Pathmark must undergo massive changes to their corporate structure if they are to emerge successfully from Chapter 11 Bankruptcy.”

“The unionized members of Pathmark are the backbone of this company and the foundation on which any future must be built. Those employees affected by today’s announcement of store closings are victims of mismanagement by previous company executives.  As I have said before, store closings alone will not save this company and they must focus on providing their employees and customers with innovative leadership, cutting edge technology and a more thorough and competent understanding of the grocery industry.”

“Local 1500 leadership remains optimistic about the future of this company for one compelling reason: the unionized employees. We urge management to listen to the workers' suggestions as to how better operate these stores. Many Pathmark employees have been with this company for well over 3 decades and are more than experienced in running successful supermarkets.  After today’s announcement, we urge management to move past store closings, and begin to listen to their store employees and return this company to its rightful place as a leader in the grocery industry.”

Local 1500 will conduct a thorough process for the three store closures once the 90-day notice is given under the WARN Act.  For any questions or further comments please contact your Union Representative at 1-800-522-0456 or send us an email at info@ufcw1500.org.  Union Representatives will be servicing Pathmark stores to speak and answer any of the questions Pathmark members may have.  Additionally a Pathmark Hotline has been established to update all Pathmark members of current news and actions; you may reach the hotline at 1-800-522-0456 ext. 1355. 

Update, we originally reported 33 stores would close, we have confirmed through A&P 32 stores will close.