LOS ANGELES – The union representing CVS pharmacy clerks and technicians has ratified a three-year contract with the drugstore chain that provides higher wages and improvements to health care plans for members.

The two sides announced the agreement on October 24 that ended a three-day strike.

Members of United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 5, 135, 324, 648, 770, 1167, 1428 and 1442 have voted to ratify the new three-year contract with CVS Pharmacy, the locals announced.

“Today, by ratifying this contract, CVS workers have secured significant wage increases for all workers, safer staffing levels and a more affordable health care plan for members struggling with the high cost of the company’s health plan,” said the locals. in a statement published on Friday.

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“After countless hours at the bargaining table and a strategic strike at seven Southern California pharmacies protesting the company’s illegal actions, the hard-working UFCW members stood together for their families and each other and secured a strong contract.

“This contract is a concrete and direct result of the tireless work of the member-led negotiating committee. Together, our members are fighting for a brighter future, and this contract will help achieve that goal.”

According to union officials, the contract provides:

• Wage increases for all workers in each contract year. The initial increases will be retroactive to July 7;
• New longevity rates at 10 and 15 years resulting in salary increases of nearly 20% over three years;
• Elimination of the two-tier pay scale for store associates and Rx associate classifications;
• Increased health care bonus for employees who were struggling with the high cost of the company plan;
• Protection of health benefits for those employees who are in the union managed health plan.

The strike began on October 18 at certain stores.

“We are pleased to have reached a contract agreement with eight local UFCW unions in California,” CVS said in a statement. “After months of good faith negotiations, we have aligned on a comprehensive benefits proposal that supports the physical, financial and professional health of our colleagues.”

A CVS spokeswoman told City News Service that stores remained open and continued to serve customers and patients during the picket.

Union leaders said they were protesting what they called illegal activities that interfere with negotiations and prevent employees from reaching a fair deal. UFCW officials alleged that CVS engaged in illegal surveillance of workers, retaliated against union activities, and prohibited workers from engaging in union activities. The allegations came as labor talks continued over a new contract to replace one that expired in June.