Contract talks have stalled between Southern California's three largest grocery chains and union officials representing about 65,000 workers. Union officials broke off talks saying they're unhappy with the latest offer from negotiators representing Vons, Ralph's and Albertson's.
Adena Tessler works for the grocery stores. She says the companies are seeking a deal that allows them to remain competitive in a tough grocery marketplace. Tessler says a strike is not imminent and workers are still employed under the terms of the expired contract.
Tessler : Neither side had asked for a 72 hour cancellation which would be the next step to the cancellation of the current contract. And so the companies feel they can get back to work next week.
Tessler says the grocers are committed to resuming talks next week. The cost of Health Care is a key issue being discussed. It's the same issue that led to a bitter five-month-long strike three years ago.
