Posts Tagged: UFCW Local 371

In May, workers at the Aurora Products plant in Orange, Conn. ratified their first union contract just in time to enjoy their very first paid holiday on Memorial Day. The 175 food processing workers first voted to join UFCW Local 371 in October with the goal of achieving job security and wage increases for their families.

By voting unanimously to ratify their contract, workers secured four paid holidays, including Memorial Day, which workers were able to enjoy with their families for the first time without losing wages. Through bargaining, the workers also gained additional personal and sick time, bereavement leave, longer breaks and a wage increase of $1.50 an hour. Their jobs are now secured with a union contract, and the workers have demonstrated that they now have a real voice on the job.

The Aurora Products workers make trail mix, granola, nuts, and dried fruit that can be found at Stop & Shop and other retailers across the country.

175 workers at Aurora Products, a natural food processing company in Orange, Conn. voted to join UFCW Local 371.

On Wednesday, October 8, 175 workers at Aurora Products, a natural food processing company in Orange, Conn. voted to join UFCW Local 371.

“Our votes were hard fought and won by Aurora workers who are on the line each day and concerned about the livelihoods of their coworkers. I’m happy that we can finally move forward, together,” said Ariceli Martinez, a production line worker who works at the plant.

Workers reached out to UFCW Local 371 wanting to address longstanding issues at the plant without fear of being intimidated or retaliated against. Workers also had support from UFCW Locals 328,919, 1459, 1445, and the RWDSU.

“We are proud of the hard work and determination workers at the plant have shown throughout the past few months,” said Thomas A. Wilkinson, UFCW Local 371 President. “They reached out to make this happen and they saw this effort through Election Day. We have more work to do ahead and are confident that we can help workers win a contract they deserve at Aurora Products.”

Aurora Products is a growing natural and organic processing plant, specializing in dried fruits, nuts, trail mixes, salad toppings, and granolas. Workers will now work with the company to come to an agreement that addresses worker concerns at the plant while helping the company grow.

“We need a chance and a voice,” said Troy Stephenson, a production line worker. “Voting together was just a first step towards making things better for our work environment, for our communities, and for our families.”