The new collective bargaining agreement covers more than 2,525 UFCW Local 2 members at National Beef Packing Company in Dodge City, Kan.
Workers in the processing, fabrication, shipping, and maintenance departments approved the five-year contract earlier this summer.
Significant gains include:
- Wage increases
- Ratification bonuses
- More comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Increased vacation and bereavement allocations
- A walking steward position
- Additional contributions to the education, safety, and cultural fund
Member Jesus Carlos Rivera Cervantes was thrilled with the bargaining outcome. “We’re very pleased with the provisions that were improved in favor of the members through the ratification of this contract,” he said. “Honestly, we weren’t expecting very much, given the shortage of cattle, reduced work hours, and the difficult economy. Despite all the obstacles, workers were thanking the negotiating committee for what they were able to accomplish.”
UFCW Local 2 President Martin Rosas added that the achievement didn’t happen by chance. “It is the result of our membership’s unity, organization, and solidarity,” he said. “When workers stand united and fight together, we can secure better wages, better benefits, and a better quality of life for our families.”
