Union protesters greet opening of latest Aldi’s store

Union protesters greeted the opening of the latest Aldi’s store in St. Paul on Friday morning. United Food and Commercial Workers Local 789 wants the discount retailer to sign a “labor-peace agreement.” Under such a pact, the company would agree not to interfere with efforts to unionize workers at the store.

“They have consistently ignored our request,” said Don Seaquist, president of Local 789.

Roughly a dozen protesters gathered outside the store this morning carrying signs that read “Please do not shop Aldi foods,” and “Security is a union contract.” Local 789 represents workers at two grocery stores, Byerly’s and Cub Foods, in close proximity to the new Aldi’s store.

The discount retailer has 20 stores in the Twin Cities area. Seaquist said that Friday’s action is the start of an ongoing campaign to pressure the grocery chain.

“This is day one,” he says. “We’re going to be out here until we decide not to be.”