IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT JOHN T. NICCOLLAI THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF STOP AND SHOP GUIDELINES

FOR ADDRESSING SHOPLIFTERS

The Union has been informed by Stop and Shop that it is their intention to disseminate an electronic policy restricting store associates from engagements and confrontations with alleged shoplifters.  Obviously, we have no objection to the policy on its face since our duties and responsibilities do not relate to security work or the detection and prevention of theft of merchandise by customers.

The Union does however object to the guidelines under which this program is being implemented.  The form itself indicates that a failure to follow the guidelines will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.  Beyond that, the company is also requiring members to enter their name, read the entire program format, and once completed, acknowledge by checking a box that they have thoroughly read the guidelines of the program and that they fully understand those guidelines.

As you know, the Union has throughout the years taken the position that we will sign nothing but our paychecks.  The dissemination and completion of this electronic form by membership could expose our brothers and sisters to employment jeopardy and, beyond that, we view it as a violation of our Collective Bargaining Agreement.  Again, your Union has no objection to the company disseminating this information, making it part of their employment handbook or even including it as part of their training process but we will not sign or acknowledge that we have fully read, understand and agree to any such policy which could subject us to termination.