CVS Workers Strike In Southern California, Pasadena Stores Not Directly Yet Affected – Pasadena Now
CVS pharmacy workers in Southern California initiated a strike on Friday, protesting what they claim are unfair labor practices and pushing for improved wages and benefits. The strike, organized by United Food and Commercial Workers Local 770, which represents nearly 7,000 CVS workers, has not yet directly affected the eight CVS stores in Pasadena, but could potentially impact service and operations in the city's locations if the labor dispute escalates.
"We've had more than a dozen good faith negotiating sessions with the UFCW over the last several months, including six since the contract expired in June," CVS stated, expressing disappointment with the union's decision to strike.
The company maintains that progress has been made in contract negotiations, including tentative agreements on pay increases and benefits.
While Pasadena stores are not currently on strike, potential impacts could include service disruptions, temporary closures, and prescription fulfillment delays if the strike expands.
The eight CVS Pharmacies in Pasadena serve various neighborhoods, including Old Pasadena, East Washington Village, Victory Park, and South Lake Avenue.
The strike began at 7 a.m. Friday, with workers picketing at a store located at 1701 S. Western Ave. in Los Angeles. United Food and Commercial Workers Local 770 alleges that the company has engaged in illegal surveillance of workers, retaliation for union activities, and prohibiting workers from engaging in union-related actions. Last month, union members voted to authorize a strike.
Union officials argue that current wages are insufficient, with the average CVS clerk making less than $20 an hour and unable to afford the company's health insurance. Pharmacy technicians, despite extensive training and certification requirements, earn only $24.90 an hour after five years of service, according to the union.
CVS counters that they have already agreed to increase pay rates for store associates, with additional increases for colleagues with 5+ and 10+ years of service. The company also claims to have offered increased contributions toward health insurance costs for employees enrolled in company-sponsored plans, and has agreed not to reduce any benefits workers currently have.
Negotiations are set to resume on Wednesday, October 25, as both parties seek to finalize an agreement. Meanwhile, approximately 3,500 Rite Aid workers in California are voting on strike authorization, which could further impact the pharmacy landscape in Southern California if they join CVS workers on the picket lines.
