Just Miles from Kroger’s Court Battle, a Food Desert Shows What’s at Stake

As Kroger Sues to Block Union, a Neighborhood Without a Grocery Store Watches Anxiously

Just a few miles from the courthouse where Kroger is fighting to block a unionization vote at its stores, a small community is grappling with the consequences of not having a grocery store.

The neighborhood, known as Avondale, is a food desert, meaning it lacks access to fresh, affordable food. Residents rely on convenience stores and fast-food restaurants, which often have limited and unhealthy options.

Kroger’s Lawsuit Could Make Things Worse

Kroger’s lawsuit could make things even worse for Avondale. If the company succeeds in blocking the union, it could lead to lower wages and fewer benefits for workers, which could in turn make it more difficult for the company to invest in its stores.

That would be a devastating blow to Avondale, which is already struggling to attract businesses. The neighborhood has a high poverty rate and many residents are uninsured.

A Community in Crisis

The lack of a grocery store in Avondale is a major problem for the community. Residents have to travel long distances to buy fresh food, which can be a challenge for those who don’t have cars.

The problem is especially acute for seniors and people with disabilities. Many of them rely on public transportation, which is often unreliable and inconvenient.

Kroger’s Responsibility

Kroger is one of the largest grocery store chains in the country. It has a responsibility to ensure that all communities have access to fresh, affordable food.

The company’s lawsuit against the union is a selfish attempt to protect its profits at the expense of its workers and the communities it serves.

Take Action!

We urge Kroger to drop its lawsuit and allow its workers to vote on whether or not they want to unionize.

We also urge the community to support local businesses and organizations that are working to bring fresh food to Avondale.

Together, we can make sure that everyone in our community has access to the healthy food they need to thrive.

Additional Resources:

• Kroger sues to block union vote at Cincinnati stores
• Nearly Half of US Counties Are Food Deserts
• Food Deserts