PHOENIX, Nov. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- As a result of the strike deadline imposed by UFCW Local 99 this Friday, Fry's Food Stores is bolstering their employee base to make sure that customers continue to receive the outstanding customer service they have always experienced when shopping in our stores.

During the past week, Fry's has hired more than 5,000 temporary workers, many with considerable grocery experience. Fry's is also in the process of flying in hundreds of managers from other Kroger (the parent company of Fry's) locations to work in the stores should there be a strike or lockout. Fry's will continue to accept applications for temporary workers through this weekend.

JoEllen Lynn, Fry's spokesperson says, "We continue to try to find solutions that both our company and union can accept, but as the union's imposed strike deadline approaches, we are taking the responsible course for our company and our employees to make all the necessary preparations. This weekend our stores will be open and our customers will continue to receive the excellent customer service they have come to expect from Fry's."

Fry's has been negotiating with the union since October 2008. The company has offered a contract with raises and gift card bonuses. The contract also proposes the company continue to pay all healthcare premiums for current employees. New hires would pay a $5-$15 per week healthcare coverage co-premium. In addition, Fry's is offering an additional $7 million to help stabilize the pension plan for employees.

"It is a good proposal in a very difficult local economy," Lynn said.

Fry's has 120 stores in Arizona and employs more than 17,000 associates. Fry's has been serving Arizona families since 1960. In Tucson, Fry's employs more than 4,000 associates.

SOURCE Fry's Food Stores