Deals include improvements to wages, benefits
The United Steelworkers Local 4610 recently ratified two new contracts in Cambridge, Ont.
Job security and apprenticeship programs were highlights of the agreements reached for nearly 550 workers in the Cambridge area.
The affected workers are employed at Frito Lay, now owned by PepsiCo Canada. Of the affected workers, 500 work in the plant to make chips and snacks while 43 are employed as transportation workers.
The contracts will run from Jan. 3, 2016, to Jan. 2, 2021.
Plant workers gained improvements to their pension and benefit plans as well as wage increases of 10.75 per cent over five years. The agreements also include an apprenticeship program that will provide opportunities for enhanced job security and vacation flexibility.
Transportation workers gained a pension increase exceeding 10 per cent over five years as well as improvements to wages and benefits. Additionally, the deal includes enhancements to job security and vacation flexibility.
Both contracts include an expedited grievance process and improved union representation.
“It’s very forward-looking of our members at Frito Lay,” said USW Ontario director Marty Warren. “They initiated early bargaining recognizing the potential for significant capital investment by the company in its Cambridge operations in the near future.”
