Photo: Getty Images
(Undated) -- United Auto Workers Union members reject Deere's second contract offer -- 10 thousand workers will remain on strike.
55-percent of members voted down the tentative agreement reached between the UAW and John Deere.
In a release from Marc A. Howze, Deere's Group President, Lifecycle Solutions, and Chief Administrative Offer, Deere & Co. stated:
“Through the agreements reached with the UAW, John Deere would have invested an additional $3.5 billion in our employees, and by extension, our communities, to significantly enhance wages and benefits that were already the best and most comprehensive in our industries. This investment was the right one for Deere, our employees, and everyone we serve together. Even though it would have created greater competitive challenges within our industries, we had faith in our employees’ ability to sharpen our competitive edge. With the rejection of the agreement covering our Midwest facilities, we will execute the next phase of our Customer Service Continuation Plan.”
According to documents released by the union, the new six-year labor agreement included 10% wage increases in the first year and retirement bonuses. Those working at Deere & Co. for 10 or more years would receive a $37,500 bonus with workers of 25 or more years receiving a $50,000 bonus.
The union rejected a six-year collective bargaining agreement on October 10th. The union began to strike on the 14th and will continue to strike with the rejection of the second contract offer.