"This is about fairness and respect for hard-working, frontline members who keep our communities fed and our stores running," said Jacques Loveall, president of UFCW 8-Golden State in a statement. "We’re calling on Safeway-Albertsons to do right by union members and agree to a contract that reflects their value and dedication."

The union says every Safeway store from Bakersfield, north to the Oregon border could see picket lines this weekend if an agreement isn't reached with Safeway's parent company, Albertsons.

The union said it is pushing for higher wages, funding for health care and pension benefits and scheduling provisions.