Albertsons workers represented by UFCW Local 8 recently voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike.

"This vote does not mean we will go out on strike tomorrow," said Sarah Thody, president of UFCW Local 8, headquartered in Great Falls. The members have shown resolve and faith in their leadership by voting to authorize the potential strike, backing members of the bargaining committee.

UFCW Local 4 in Butte will conduct the same authorization meetings next week in four locations. "Our membership in Montana has had enough of bonuses without real pay increases," according to Nicholia Cosurgine, UFCW Local 4 president. "These UFCW members work hard, and they deserve real wage increases."

Members of UFCW Locals 4 and 8 have been in negotiations with Albertsons since October of last year.  No dates have yet been set for future negotiations.