Hannaford Distribution Workers On Strike

Union workers at the South Portland Hannaford Distribution Center are on strike after failed contract negotiations.

Members of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1445 didn't report for work this morning, but did show up with signs to picket outside the facility. Union leaders say the strike is meant to last just 24 hours, in hopes of getting the attention of Hannaford's parent company, Ahold Delhaize. A spokesperson for Delhaize told the AP that the company is 'disappointed' by the strike and will fully service its customers while workers are on the picket line.

The workers' three-year contract expired last Saturday and negotiations have not been going well. Union members are asking for a better health insurance plan and better starting wages for new workers.The company plans to sit down with union representatives on February 26th.

The strike comes 10 months after a fire at the same facility caused some product shortages in Maine stores.