This report, commissioned by the United Food and Commercial Workers, Western States Council, examines the decline in wages and working conditions for food retail workers in California as the industry has grown. The study, which is based on worker surveys, interviews, data analysis, and academic literature, finds that while the industry has experienced consistent growth over the past two decades, the expansion of a low-price, low-cost business model has led to a significant decline in wages, with high rates of poverty and hunger among workers. The report recommends a two-pronged strategy to address these issues: supporting unionization and implementing public policies that support livable wages and benefits. This approach would help create good jobs in the food retail sector and promote long-term prosperity for California's families and communities.
