UFCW Local 152 members who work at Old Fashioned Kitchen in Lakewood, N.J., recently ratified a new contract that strengthens pensions and protects health care benefits. The about 50 members produce blintzes, potato pancakes, pierogies, and crepe shells, which are sold to hospitality and restaurant businesses across the country.
The three-year contract includes contributions by the company to the UFCW and Employers Supplemental Pension Fund, which will be based on the hours worked by the members. An increase in the company’s contribution is guaranteed in January 2022.
The new contract provides Old Fashioned Kitchen members with the same level of quality health insurance benefits for the life of the agreement. The contract also includes a modification to the Attendance Warning System and adds clear language defining exceptions to the point system. This means that members will no longer be reprimanded in these defined situations, such as an emergency with their child.
Members of the Negotiating Committee included Assistant Director of Collective Bargaining Lisa Sanders; Union Representative Jose Echevarria; Shop Steward Orlando Figueroa; and members Esther Ryans and Jose Diaz.