Holiday Time Is Union Time!

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)

Shopping takes on a lot of meanings during the holidays, but UFCW Local 400 President Tom McNutt – whose members work at many area retail stores – likes to keep it simple. “Union members should buy union whenever possible,” McNutt says. “The economy needs spending that supports middle-class, living wage jobs. When we all stick together and support one another, every one of us comes out ahead.” Click here for Local 400’s annual guide to shopping union in the metro Washington area. Not only will you find a handy list of area union retail shops, from Macy’s to Filene’s Basement, Giant and a whole lot more, but Local 400 members even offer specific recommendations for union-made gifts. Allclad cookware, union-made in Pennsylvania, and votive candle holders, are “a good all-around gift for unexpected occasions,” says Lisa Stemcosky (l), a Local 400 member who’s worked at Bloomingdale’s in Chevy Chase, Md., for the past three years. “It’s always important for union members to support one another in good times and bad times,” Stemcosky adds. “In this economy, it’s nice to have each other to lean on.” And you can’t do better than buying shirts and ties for the holidays, according to Local 400 member Cohen Simpson (r), who’s worked at Hecht’s -- now Macy’s -- for seven years. “They’re always a good choice,” he says. “Just come by and we’ll get them matched.” So check out Local 400’s Holiday Time is Union Time! listings to find great – and union -- holiday gifts, high-quality, name-brand clothing and other gift items, and holiday food, whether it’s catered parties, pre-prepared dishes or ingredients for home-cooked feasts.