Quick links+
Approximately 40 IAM Local 330 (District 65) members at Milk-Bone’s Buffalo plant will return to work after a new three-year deal was ratified overwhelmingly, ending their two-week walkout. The strike followed a failed offer by the company with subpar wage increases, which was resoundingly rejected by the membership.
WATCH: Milk-Bone workers ratify contract; return to work WGRZ-TV (Buffalo, N.Y.)
The deal includes raises of 8.5%, 3.5%, and 2% in each of the three years, respectively, plus a $2,500 signing bonus. The new contract also gives the workers two additional sick/personal days, trainer pay and shift differential.
“Mandatory overtime was a huge issue,” said IAM District 65 Assistant Directing Business Representative Rick Dahn. “The company pushed hard for mandatory overtime, but I’m so proud of these members for sticking together to beat back mandatory overtime and make the other improvements. Their solidarity paid off.”
“These members were seeking a better contract worthy of their important contributions to the company,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Their solidarity and unwavering commitment made this contract possible.”
“I was very proud of the members showing their solidarity, and sticking together,” said IAM District 65 Directing Business Representative Ron Warner. “My thanks and congratulations go out to Assistant Directing Business Representative Rick Dahn, the Negotiating Committee and the membership.”
Local 330 members at Milk-Bone are maintenance and repair workers, including mechanics, electricians, oilers and pipefitters.
