LOS ANGELES — With resumption of negotiations in Southern California at the beginning of last week, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service said Friday there was “some progress on difficult and complex issues.” However, a news blackout agreed to by the three employers involved in the talks — Albertsons, Ralphs and Vons — and the seven locals of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union precludes the release of any details. The mediation service said it was pleased “that employees continue to work, the stores remain operational and the parties continue to meet and explore potential solutions.” The contract, which covers approximately 65,000 retail clerks, expired March 5 and is currently being extended on a day-to-day basis, subject to 72 hours’ cancellation notice.
— Elliot Zwiebach
