Federal mediator Earl Leonhardt called the recess "in order to give both sides an opportunity to carefully review information that has been exchanged and to discuss future proposals and possible solutions," Kroger said.

That's an encouraging sign, said Mike Doyle, who teaches labor relations courses for the Greater Cincinnati Human Resources Association. "Apparently there's been some movement, and (both sides) need some time to review," he said.

After members of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1099 authorized a strike Wednesday, the two sides went back to the bargaining table Thursday. Enough progress was made on issues of health insurance and pension funding that Leonhardt convinced both sides late Thursday to again extend their last contract and continue negotiating.

Either side can revoke the contract extension with 72 hours' notice.

Major issues in the talks include increased costs for health insurance, wage increases and work rule changes that could cut pay for many workers. Kroger wants to reduce labor costs to help it deal with nonunion competitors such as Wal-Mart.

Despite progress in the talks, Kroger continues to hire and train temporary employees, to staff the stores if there's a work stoppage. "We believe it's the prudent thing to do to protect our business," said spokesman Gary Rhodes. "Our focus remains continuing to work with the union to reach an agreement."

Kroger shares closed Friday at $15.02, up 12 cents.

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E-mail johnb@enquirer.com