Posts Categorized: Food Processing

Over 250 members of UFCW Local 700 who work at the Conagra dairy plant in Indianapolis recently ratified a new contract that strengthens wages and benefits. These workers  are employed in the bakery division and produce food like Marie Callender’s pies.

The three-year contract includes immediate, guaranteed pay increases. The contract also raises the shift differential; increases premium pay; and provides earned personal days. Members also won stronger seniority language and improved language for training and job advancement, which will create more pathways for full-time jobs.

“Our members work hard to produce food that ends up on kitchen tables across the country,” said International Vice President and UFCW Local 700 President Joe Chorpenning. “We have some of the best contracts in the industry, which means our members will have higher pay, better job security, and more opportunities for a better life.”

More than 50 members of UFCW Local 152 who work at Rich Products in Vineland, N.J., ratified a new contract on May 7 that raises wages and improves benefits. These members work primarily in the production of Italian meatballs under the Casa Di Bertacchi name at the Vineland plant.

The four-year contract, which was ratified unanimously, includes significant wage increases across the board, in addition to an improved Crew Leader and premium rates. Additionally, all members will now receive Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday as a paid holiday.

The new contract introduces a boot purchasing credit, where members may now choose from a pre-approved list of boots to receive from the company at no cost. The contract also expands bereavement leave.

Members of the negotiating committee included Director of Collective Bargaining Dan Ross; Union Representative Jose Echevarria; and Shop Stewards Juan Walker, Juanita Cruz, and Abelino Serrano.