Marsh Faces Expanded Federal Labor Charges

For the second time since November, the National Labor Relations Board has charged Marsh Supermarkets Inc. with allegedly violating federal law by threatening, intimidating and coercing its workers to try to discourage them from forming a union; and firing an employee for supporting the union.

“We vehemently deny these charges and look forward to the scheduled hearing where the facts of the case will be presented,” said Dave Redden, senior VP of human resources for the Indianapolis-based supermarket chain. “As the process continues, we remain confident that in the end these allegations will be found to be without merit. Marsh is very proud of the fair and open environment that has been a hallmark of our relationship with our associates for nearly 80 years. We have always respected and abided by the rules established by the National Labor Relations Board and other regulatory agencies concerning employment matters.”

After charging Marsh with violating the rights of its employees at an Indianapolis store in November, the NLRB this week issued a new complaint, accusing Marsh of similar violations at its Beech Grove, Ind., store, in advance of a scheduled union election last year. The NLRB contends these alleged actions are part of a broader pattern of coercive management tactics on the part of Marsh and its parent company, Florida-based Sun Capital Partners.

In its complaint, the NLRB reiterates the earlier charges pertaining to the Georgetown Road store, then goes on to charge Marsh management with placing workers at the Beech Grove store under surveillance, threatening employees with retaliation because of their support of the union and firing another employee because of his support of the union.

The NLRB has scheduled a hearing on the charges for Feb. 16.