Dairy Workers' Victory: Higher Wages, Better Benefits, and Stronger Protections

In a significant victory for dairy workers, Teamsters Local 120 members at Foremost Farms USA have overwhelmingly ratified a strong four-year agreement. This new contract promises higher wages, increased pension contributions, and improved health care for the workers. Brad Lusk, a Local 120 shop steward, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, "This company has generated a lot of revenue because of our hard work. We fought hard for this contract, and now every worker at this company is better off because we were ready to strike to get what we deserved."

The deal comes after workers forced management to take their demands seriously by resoundingly authorizing a strike. In addition to better pay and benefits, Lusk and his co-workers also secured a tripled premium rate for night shifts, more bereavement time, and double the allowance for work boots. Tiffany Kagel, a business agent for Local 120, emphasized the importance of recognizing workers' contributions, saying, "It’s about time Foremost Farms USA starts to recognize what Teamsters members have known all along. Workers are responsible for the success of this company, so it’s only right that we get great health care and other benefits."

Cory Holliday, a shop steward for Local 120, echoed the sentiment, stating, "We’re willing to do whatever it takes to get a fair contract. So is every other Teamster at this company." Local 120 and Teamsters Local 662 represent workers at nearly all of Foremost Farms USA’s facilities, with Teamsters Local 120 proudly representing over 15,000 workers in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

This contract ratification highlights the power of collective bargaining and the importance of recognizing and rewarding workers' contributions. As the dairy industry faces labor shortages and an aging workforce, attracting and retaining skilled workers becomes increasingly crucial. By offering competitive wages, improved benefits, and better working conditions, Foremost Farms USA and other dairy companies can address these challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Moreover, this victory sets a precedent for other dairy companies, encouraging them to offer similar benefits and compensation packages to attract and retain skilled workers. This could lead to a more competitive labor market within the dairy industry, with companies vying for the best talent. As the dairy industry continues to evolve and face new challenges, it is essential to prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of its workforce to ensure its long-term success.

In conclusion, the ratification of this new contract by Teamsters Local 120 members at Foremost Farms USA is a significant milestone in the dairy industry's ongoing efforts to address labor shortages and attract and retain skilled workers. By recognizing and rewarding workers' contributions, the industry can ensure its long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.