Pasadena Protest Signals Escalation in Labor Dispute
On Monday, August 4, 2025, Stater Bros. workers, union representatives, and community supporters will stage a public boycott of the Stater Bros. supermarket located at 1390 Allen Ave., Pasadena, CA. The action, scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., is part of an escalating campaign to pressure the grocery chain amid prolonged contract negotiations and alleged unfair labor practices (ULPs).
The call to boycott reflects growing frustration among approximately 12,000 unionized workers who have been working without a contract since March 2, 2025.
What’s at Stake: Wages, Staffing, Benefits & Respect
Stater Bros. employees—represented by UFCW Locals 770 and 324—have been in contract negotiations for nearly five months. The workers are fighting for:
- Living wages that keep up with inflation and industry standards
- Adequate staffing to meet consumer demand and prevent burnout
- Affordable healthcare benefits
- Stronger protections on scheduling and workplace safety
Despite multiple rounds of bargaining, union leaders say the company has refused to bargain in good faith and instead engaged in conduct that violates federal labor law.
Allegations of Unfair Labor Practices
The boycott is being staged in response to serious allegations, including:
- Surveillance of union supporters
- Retaliation against employees for protected organizing activity
- Coercive interrogation
- Threats and interference with lawful labor activities
These actions have prompted UFCW leadership to file ULP charges with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Workers have also overwhelmingly authorized a strike vote, though no formal strike has yet been declared.
“Our members are simply asking to be treated with dignity and respect. Instead, they’ve faced surveillance and threats for exercising their rights,” said UFCW 770 President Kathy Finn.
Why the Pasadena Store Was Targeted
The Pasadena location—store #202—was chosen because it has been at the center of some of the union’s allegations. Workers report that conditions at this location are especially troubling, with chronic understaffing and management intimidation of union supporters.
By focusing their efforts on a single store, the union hopes to:
- Draw media and public attention to ongoing ULPs
- Exert economic pressure without calling a full-scale strike
- Rally community support for broader labor protections
What Happens Next?
Stater Bros. and the union are scheduled to resume contract negotiations on August 5–6, 2025, under the supervision of a federal mediator. The union hopes the boycott and accompanying media coverage will force the company to return to the table with meaningful proposals.
If no agreement is reached, the union may escalate further—including calling a ULP strike or organizing additional boycotts at other high-profile locations.
Know Your Rights
If you’re a grocery worker—or any California employee—and you believe your employer is retaliating against you for union involvement or protected concerted activity, you may have legal recourse. Under both federal and California law:
- You cannot be fired, demoted, or disciplined for participating in lawful union activities.
- You are protected against surveillance, threats, and coercion.
- You have the right to strike or protest if your employer commits ULPs.
Call Employees First Labor Law today for a free consultation if you’re facing retaliation or need guidance on your rights.
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