King Soopers, Union In Court On Alleged 'blitzing'

Blackburn did not indicate when he would rule.

Local 7 represents thousands of King Soopers workers seeking a new contract to replace one that expired May 9.

The union and King Soopers, part of Cincinnati-based Kroger Co., disagree on raises, pension benefits and a two-tier system that offers fewer benefits to newer employees.

On Wednesday, the union announced that King Soopers workers along Colorado's Front Range voted by a 9-to-1 ratio to reject the chain's latest offer for a 5-year contract and to reopen negotiations.

The vote included workers in the Denver area, Colorado Springs, Longmont, Boulder and Pueblo. Employees in the store's meat departments in Greeley and Fort Collins also voted.

Voting took place Monday through Wednesday.