Three of the five Stop & Shop workers’ unions have met and ratified their work contracts as of Friday, April 26, while the remaining two have scheduled upcoming votes. The ratifications are the most recent developments, according to External Communications Manager Stefanie Shuman, regarding an 11-day strike that began on April 11 and ended Monday, April 22.

Back to work on Monday morning, April 22, were union staff of Stop & Shop in Newtown, as well supermarket chain employees in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, who had been picketing outside the stores starting in the early afternoon of April 11. Failed negotiations between Unionized UFCW locals and Stop & Shop regarding work contracts had prompted the strike.

Rocco Bandino, Stop & Shop manager in Sand Hill Plaza, had said, “All we can really say is they settled [Sunday, April 21], and we’re back to work to put things back together and serve customers again.” The day was “going very well,” he added. The store, at 228 South Main Street, had returned to its regular hours, 6 am to 10 pm, in all departments.

Ms Shuman offered the following on April 22: “Our associates’ top initial priority will be restocking and preparing our stores so we can take great care of our customers and provide them with the service and selection they deserve. We deeply appreciate the patience and understanding of our customers during this time and look forward to welcoming everyone back.”