I just started at Kroger, my first day of training was yesterday. I live and work in an Indiana store and the Union Rep stopped by to talk to me and one other new hire. I am only working part time, I have another full time position that is my primary employment. I have never worked for a union; however, we have the option of joining the union or not. If we don't join, we still are protected by the contract the union establishes with Kroger we are just not eligible for the extra member benefits (scholarships, discount card, etc).
I have never worked for a union before and I don't know if I should join or not. Looking for input. Have you all joined the Kroger union? If so, or if you haven't, what were your reasons?
There's extra union member benefits? That's news to me.
I'm a member because I see it as protection money. Yeah, in theory, they'll fight for you under the contract if you're not a member but reality... even as a member I keep having my contract rights violated on scheduling and the union puppet just says, "needs of the business"
I'm a by the book kinda person and don't really like feeling I have to pay to have my rights ensured.
On the front end being under union sucks because people who've been around forever make lots of money just for time served and it doesn't mean they're skilled or responsible for a shift, or the cash office while those who've aspired and do more only get what the union has negotiated which is nothing above cashier pay in the ATL division no matter what you do up front if you aren't lead or backup.
I am. It affords a little piece of mind knowing i support my brothers and sisters that need representation. kroger can be a vicious company when it wants you out for something stupid.
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Would you like fries with th... I mean, your milk in a bag?
Keep in mind when joining that your dues are going to go up with your status and benefits. They are as low as $6.60 and as high as $17.35 a week at my store.
I'm a member, I have to be in Ohio but i don't really mind it.
If we weren't in a union, they could make up any BS reason for firing us. At least in the union, theoretically, they have to go through the proper channels.
I am. It affords a little piece of mind knowing i support my brothers and sisters that need representation. kroger can be a vicious company when it wants you out for something stupid.
Like as if the union is that angelic, righteous, holy crusader that defends the rights of employees no matter the cost or standing.
I'm not a member of the union, and I'm glad I have been warned against it. A lot of the people hired with me during mass orientation became desperate to get out because of how much the dues were taking out of what little pay they got.
Absofreakinglutely!!! I will also be shop steward as of next Monday morning. (I have to get my 60 days in) Being a member of the Union gives you great discounts on all sorts of things, but most importantly it gives you job security. At my store, if one of the managers or floor supervisors do not like you, they will fire you within your first 60 days. Our store sucks BADLY.....our numbers are low, and promotions are given due to the amount of butt kissing you do to certain people. I am not a butt kisser, but I will fight to the death for an employee being screwed over.
