Workers at CVS Pharmacies in Southern California Strike for Better Pay and Conditions
In a significant labor action, workers at seven CVS pharmacies across Southern California have initiated a strike, demanding improved pay, better health care, and an end to what they describe as bad-faith contract negotiations by the company. The walkout, which commenced on Friday morning, has impacted four stores in Los Angeles and three in Orange County, continuing through the weekend.
Picket Lines and Solidarity
On Saturday, strikers gathered outside one of the Los Angeles locations, passionately urging customers to respect the picket lines. The atmosphere was charged with determination as workers voiced their grievances and solidarity. Melissa Acosta, a pharmacy technician and member of the contract bargaining committee, highlighted the challenges they face, accusing CVS of intimidating workers and obstructing their communication with union representatives.
Store Operations Amid the Strike
Despite the strike, the affected CVS locations have remained operational, albeit with managers and nonunion employees stepping in to fill the gaps left by striking workers. This has raised concerns among the strikers, who argue that the company’s approach undermines the significance of their demands.
Union Support and Voting
The decision to strike was not taken lightly; it followed a vote by the two local United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) unions on September 29, where over 90% of members supported the action. Workers have expressed their commitment to continue picketing until negotiations resume on Wednesday, emphasizing their resolve to fight for better working conditions.
Company Response and Negotiation Progress
In response to the strike, CVS spokesperson Amy Thibault expressed disappointment over the labor action, stating that the company has made strides toward finalizing a contract. Thibault mentioned that CVS has reached tentative agreements aimed at increasing pay and enhancing the company’s contributions to health insurance. However, many workers, like Acosta, remain skeptical. Acosta shared her personal struggle, revealing that she has never been able to afford CVS’s health care plan during her nine years with the company, opting instead for the state-run program Covered California.
Economic Pressures on CVS
The strike occurs against a backdrop of economic challenges facing major pharmacy chains, including CVS. The company has been grappling with rising costs and fierce competition from online retailers. Recently, CVS Health’s CEO, Karen Lynch, stepped down amid a significant drop in share prices, reflecting the broader struggles within the industry. Additionally, CVS is nearing the conclusion of a three-year plan to close 900 stores, further complicating the landscape for employees.
Pay and Working Conditions
Currently, CVS pharmacy technicians, who are required to complete extensive training and meet licensing requirements, earn approximately $24.90 an hour after five years of service, according to union representatives. However, many workers feel that this compensation does not adequately reflect their contributions, especially as they face increasing workloads and responsibilities.
Staffing Challenges During Flu Season
Carlos Alfaro, another technician participating in the strike, highlighted the understaffing issues that have become particularly pressing as flu season approaches. He noted the added pressure on employees to call patients for flu shots and promote vaccinations while simultaneously managing the demands of filling prescriptions. This dual responsibility has left many workers feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated.
Customer Service Struggles
The situation is further exacerbated by CVS’s decision to lock up many items as a measure against shoplifting. Workers report that this policy has led to longer wait times for customers, who often struggle to find assistance. Acosta explained that customers may perceive the staff as unhelpful, when in reality, the lack of adequate staffing prevents them from providing the level of service they aspire to deliver.
Calls for Enhanced Security
In addition to better pay and health care, workers are also advocating for improved store security. They argue that a safer working environment is essential for both employees and customers, as the current conditions contribute to a stressful atmosphere that affects everyone involved.
The Road Ahead
As the strike continues, the workers remain steadfast in their demands, hoping that their actions will lead to meaningful changes in their working conditions and compensation. With negotiations set to resume soon, the outcome of this labor action could have significant implications for CVS employees and the broader retail pharmacy landscape.