The United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW), a leading US shop workers union, is trying to whip up an anti-Tesco campaign months before the grocer opens its first store there by claiming the retailer will promote underage drinking. Union leaders have sent flyers to thousands of homes in Phoenix, Arizona that suggest Tesco sells alcohol to minors.

"Tesco is currently facing numerous investigations in Britain for selling alcohol to minors," warn the leaflets, highlighting the one-month ban Tesco received in one UK county as "punishment" for underage sales. The leaflets call on residents to "protect your family" by urging the State Liquor Board to block Tesco's alcohol licence applications. The move is part of a broader union campaign to force Tesco to talk to it.

"They're exacerbating the situation by simply being arrogant and rude. It brings into question whether they are going to be a responsible member of the community," said Bob Grossfeld, of the UFCW, regarding Tesco's management refusing to make any contact.

For Tesco, the area is a perfect destination for its Fresh and Easy neighbourhood market chain, which is expected to spark a revolution in US convenience shopping by offering high-end ready meals and fresh food. It also makes the residents unlikely union sympathisers.

The latest batch of leaflets went out last Thursday to homes in Scottsdale, a wealthy suburb which attracts the likes of Christina Aguilera for its nightlife and Kate Moss for its rehab facilities, and is host to countless Republican party fundraisers.

Tesco defended its stance on underage drinking, which it says it takes "very seriously". It pointed to the "Think 21" scheme, under which anyone who looks under 21 gets asked for ID, which operates in all its stores. A spokesman also pointed out in the US it is compulsory for anyone buying alcohol to be asked to prove their age.

Tesco, which will tomorrow report pre-tax profits of around £2.5bn, has leases for 71 Fresh and Easy outlets and has applied for more than 24 alcohol licences. It plans to open the first stores later this year but is facing a legal challenge to halt the construction of its main Californian distribution depot.

Grossfeld stated that Tesco has not made any decisions about US union representation, but is widely expected to follow the non-union lead set by rivals such as Wal-Mart.

Source: The Independent (London)