Respect for Workers Keeping Shoppers Away

Steven Burd, Safeway’s chief executive, is wrong when he states that shoppers are staying away because they do not want to confront strikers (“Safeway Reports $696-Million Loss,” Feb. 13).

We are staying away because we understand the economic horrors we are facing as a nation and that this move on the part of the grocery industry is the tip of the iceberg.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. behaves so aggressively and is a fire-breathing dragon eating alive suppliers and employees alike. It is out to rule all retail sales at any cost.

But what Burd does not realize is that we have a relationship with the employees at our stores. They are our neighbors, we see them when they are pregnant, we know when they are absent because of illness or a death in the family, and we care.

The folks on strike are a cut above those working at discount chains, and they deserve our respect and our support -- and healthcare benefits as well.

Betty Seidmon

Cheviot Hills

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Safeway lost $696 million in the fourth quarter and about $1 billion in the quarter a year earlier.

It looks like it’s time for Steven Burd, Safeway’s chief executive, to reward himself and his valuable vice presidents with more bonuses or stock options for a job well done.

Bob Malconian

Northridge