Shaw’s Drivers, Mechanics Ratify 1st Contract

Teamster drivers and mechanics at a Shaw’s distribution center in Wells, Maine, have overwhelmingly ratified their first-ever contract, in a vote that took place Oct. 24. The 79 members work for Shaw’s, delivering product to the Albertsons banner’s grocery stores across New England.

Having first sought union representation in 2015 and voted to join Local 340 in March 2017, the employees now have a two-year contract that provides a grievance process; seniority rights in regard to bidding routes and work schedules; and guaranteed pay raises in each year of the contract.

South Portland, Maine-based Teamsters Local 340 represents 4,000 workers at public and private employers throughout the state.

In 2013, West Bridgewater, Mass.-based Shaw’s, which operates 154 stores throughout New England, was acquired by AB Acquisition, also the parent company of supermarket chains Albertson’s and Safeway. Albertsons Cos. Inc. is No. 3 on Progressive Grocer’s 2018 Super 50 list of the top grocers in the United States.