Posts Categorized: Packing and Processing

Over 100 members of UFCW Local 152 who work at Johanna Foods in Flemington, N.J. ratified a new contract on Dec. 13 that strengthens wages and protects benefits. The workers at this facility produce yogurts, as well as other products.

This ratification follows weeks of negotiations, including a strike authorization. The strong display of solidarity among members of this unit, coupled with a public awareness campaign supported by the International Union, helped to deliver this landmark agreement.

The new six-year contract, which is retroactive to February 2023, includes a substantial retroactive wage increase for this unit. The contract also includes a general wage increase for the life of the contract that equates to $4.70 per hour, which is the largest general wage increase in the local’s history with Johanna Foods.

The contract allows members to maintain their union health benefits with no employee cost share for the life of the agreement. The contract also includes language to allow for a more streamlined vacation selection process that will help these workers plan their time off. In addition, the contract includes substantial contribution increases to members’ retirement savings to help them better prepare for a more comfortable retirement.

On Dec. 12, the UFCW issued a statement in support of the recent introduction of legislation establishing the Grocery, Farm and Food Worker Stabilization Grant program. The legislation, which aims to protect food supply workers and prevent disruptions during disasters, was introduced by Representative Nikki Budzinski (Ill.) and Senator Sherrod Brown (Ohio).

“Our members are on the front lines of our food supply chain, packing and processing meat, making sure that shelves are stocked, and helping customers get the food and goods they need to take care of their families,” said UFCW International President Marc Perrone in a statement. “Their hard work is essential to the communities they serve, and their dedication means they come in to work through hurricanes, snowstorms and, as we saw, a worldwide pandemic.”

“Until now, there has not been a dedicated fund to safeguard essential workers during natural disasters,” Perrone added. “We applaud Senator Brown and Representative Budzinski for introducing this vital legislation that will provide critical funding for essential work during times of crisis and strengthen America’s food supply chain over the long run.”