Message to Local 1500 Members Working at Pathmark Supermarkets

Image by Getty Images via @daylifeDear Pathmark Member;

The A&P/Pathmark bankruptcy process continues to evolve. I realize the frustration you must all be feeling and I greatly appreciate your patience. I assure you the process is moving along.

The affected Unions and A&P are currently exchanging information. A&P’s financial data and business plan are continuously being reviewed. The Union negotiating team must have the most accurate and credible information to properly assess A&P’s current financial situation.

I can tell you that the company has given the UFCW Locals its initial proposal and it is being reviewed. I expect to make a summary of the company’s initial proposal available for your review within the next few days. I caution you that these are only the companies’ first set of proposals. As long time Union members, you understand that the first proposal will only be a starting point for negotiations and that we will only use it for purposes of negotiating a more reasonable settlement.

Our goal from day one of this process has been too work with the company to reach an agreement that allows them to recover and grow economically while protecting the rights and livelihoods of our members working in their stores. That goal has not and will not change.

While we must hope for and work towards the best possible solution, we must prepare for the worst possible result. Our staff has developed a comprehensive response should one become necessary.

Again, I thank you for your patience. I also want to thank you for the many words of support and encouragement I have heard over the last few weeks. As long as we continue our strong solidarity, we will survive these difficult and challenging times.

Remember: One Union, One Voice!!

Bruce W. Both
President

Pathmark/A&P Update from Local 1500 President Bruce Both

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A Message from UFCW Local 1500 President, Bruce Both:

On May 5, 2011, a meeting was held between A&P and all the UFCW Local Unions that represent the companies under the A&P banner. The representatives of the various unions present, including Local 1500, were required to sign confidentiality agreements. Because of these confidentiality agreements the details of what was discussed at the meeting cannot be shared at this time.

The company has requested that the current collective bargaining agreements be changed or modified. These requests are currently under review by each Local Union, the International Union and Legal Counsel. These company requests are subject to negotiation.

At some time in the near future, the changes to your collective bargaining agreement will be presented. It should be noted that if the Unions cannot reach an agreement the Bankruptcy Judge, under Section 1113, could have the Unions’ collective bargaining agreements voided or modified.

The members of Pathmark will be receiving two mailings sent to their home. 

• You should receive a document “Notice of Meeting of Creditors” on May 31, 2011. In Chapter 11 cases, companies are required to schedule a meeting which any creditor, including employees, may attend where a representative of the company gives a short presentation with public information on the status of the bankruptcy and may answer some questions.
• There is no requirement or need for you to attend this meeting, and the notice can be ignored. 

• The second notice you will receive is from the Court regarding a “Bar Date” for the filing of any personal claims against the Company outside the collective bargaining agreement. Only those members with a personal claim need to take any action.

Please email us or contact us for any questions you may have at 1-800-522-0456.