Deal Reached Between Grocery Chains, Workers

A strike by supermarket employees in Southern California appeared to be avoided following a deal between the union and three grocery chains, media reports said. Details of the tentative 4-year contract were not released although the Los Angeles Times reported sources saying the deal included a salary increase. The deal concluded nearly seven months of negotiations and still must be approved by union members at more than 700 Albertsons, Ralphs and Vons stores. The Associated Press quoted United Food and Commercial Workers Local 770 President Rick Icaza as stating the union would recommend the membership approve the contract.