(KNSI) – Workers at Associated Milk Producers Incorporated Dairy in Paynesville have ended their strike after Teamsters Local 471 members voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new contract Sunday afternoon.
The agreement brings to a close a work stoppage that began Saturday after nearly a year of contract negotiations broke down over what the union called unfair labor practices.
According to Teamsters Spokesperson Matt McQuaid, the new contract includes significant wage increases, as well as language protecting their standards if the company is sold or changes ownership – one of the central sticking points in the dispute. Members will also gain the ability to move into a Teamster health insurance plan, which the union says will significantly reduce costs to members.
Sarah Schmidt, Vice President of Marketing for AMPI, also confirmed the vote, saying members ratified the new contract early Sunday afternoon.
The strike began Saturday after union members walked off the job, accusing AMPI of refusing to bargain in good faith and presenting an unfair contract proposal. AMPI is the largest farmer-owned cheese cooperative in the U.S., and its Paynesville processing and shipping facility supplies cheese throughout the Midwest.
AMPI confirms the deal was ratified Sunday.
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