Kellogg will permanently replace workers as union denies contract | Business and Economic News

Union members said the proposed two-tier system, in which transitional workers receive lower wages and benefits compared to longer-term workers, would deprive the union of power by removing the limit on the number of low-level workers.

Kellogg Co. said Tuesday that most U.S. cereal plant workers have voted against a new five-year contract, forcing workers to hire permanent replacements that extend the strike, which began more than two months ago.

Temporary substitutes are already working for the company at cereal plants in Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, where 1,400 union members went on strike on Oct. 5 as contracts expired and talks on payments and benefits were halted.

“It simply came to our notice then [permanent replacement] roles have been strong in all four factories, as expected. We hope that some new hires will start with the company very soon, “said Kris Bahner, a spokesman for Kellogg.

Kellogg also said no further negotiations were planned and that he had no plans to meet with the union.

The company said the union’s “unrealistic expectations” did not mean that its six offers – including the last one put to the vote – were proposed to raise salaries and allow all transitional workers with four or more years of service to move to wealth positions. was carried out.

“They’ve made a‘ clear path ’, but while it’s clear, it’s too long and unfair for many,” said union member Jeffrey Jens.

Union members said the proposed two-tier system, in which transitional workers receive lower wages and benefits compared to longer-term workers, would deprive the union of power by removing the limit on the number of low-level workers.

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren have backed a number of policies including the union, with many customers saying they boycott Kellogg’s products.

Kellogg is among several U.S. companies, including Deere & Co., as the labor market that has suffered a labor strike in recent months has tightened.