In an effort to ensure an orderly closure of the Yosemite Warehouse facility, UFCW 8-Golden State and Save Mart Supermarkets LLC have reached an agreement designed to honor the commitment of our members by securing essential protections and benefits as the facility ceases operations. Save Mart has formally informed UFCW 8 of its intent to close the Yosemite Warehouse on or around November 3, 2024.
Below is an overview of the terms negotiated to support our members through this transition:
Severance Pay and Benefits: All eligible employees employed as of November 3 will receive one week of severance pay for each full year of service. Severance pay will not be paid to members who, prior to their permanent layoff resigns, retires or is terminated for just cause. Payments will be distributed in three equal weekly installments following layoff.
Health and Welfare Coverage and Pension Contributions: Affected employees will receive three additional months of health and welfare benefits post-layoff, fully funded by the employer. Should an employee gain re-employment with Save Mart during this period, coverage will continue only for the duration they are not otherwise covered.
The Company will contribute to pension plans on behalf of affected employees for hours worked up to their final employment date, ensuring a secure transition for our members’ retirement plans.
Final Pay and Work Hours: All affected employees will receive pay for hours worked through their last day, including applicable overtime rates per the CBA. The Company reserves the right to adjust shifts by seniority if staffing falls short during the closure phase, with any further workforce reductions to follow CBA terms.
Additional Employment Protections: Unemployment Benefits: Save Mart will not contest unemployment claims filed by affected employees. Although benefits are determined by the appropriate agency, the Company’s stance is supportive.
Temporary Work and References: During the facility’s final operations, temporary workers may be scheduled if additional hours have been offered to existing employees first. Save Mart will not send union members home for lack of work while temporary workers are on site. Employees will also have access to a designated reference phone line for potential future employers to verify their role and tenure.
Voluntary Early Separation Option: For members who may wish to conclude employment before November 3, a sign-up sheet will be posted. This option, made available by seniority and classification, provides an avenue for earlier departure with full eligibility for severance and continued health benefits.
Our focus remains on securing the dignity, benefits, and rights our members deserve as they transition from employment at the Yosemite Warehouse. For questions or assistance, please reach out to your District Union Representative.
We stand by our members to make this challenging transition as smooth as possible, reinforcing our commitment to worker protection and solidarity.
Together, we will continue to prove Solidarity Works!