Michigan Dairy Workers See Increases in Wages and Benefits (10/27/09)

On October 3, Local 386 members employed at Country Fresh Dairy in Grand Rapids, Michigan, ratified a new contract. The new agreement increases wages and pension benefits, while protecting health care coverage and increases sickness and accident and life insurance coverage.

“The members at Country Fresh really stuck together during these negotiations, and it paid off with a strong contract,” said Chief Steward Mark Kollar. “Considering the economy in the U.S., and especially Michigan, we were able to bring home a good agreement.”

The five-year contract contains wage increases totaling 11 percent over the course of the agreement, and the company’s contributions to the employees’ RWDSU pension will increase by $2 per week each year. By the last year of the contract, the company will be contributing $80 per week to the plan.

The 156 employees at Country Fresh Dairy overwhelmingly voted to ratify the pact. Serving on the negotiating committee were Local 386 President Ken Brown, Kollar, Mike Bowen and Mike Brougham.