Kmart Warehouse Workers Ratify First Contract
Warehouse workers in Canton, Mich., fought for — and won — a first contract securing their union rights, improving working conditions and supporting the ailing retailer’s recovery effort.
On Nov. 6, UAW Local 174 members at the Kmart facility ratified a three-year agreement with 85 percent of the workers voting in favor of the contract.
“Bargaining this agreement was challenging for both sides,” said Jimmy Settles, director of UAW Region 1A, which includes Canton. “We are glad we reached a settlement that is mutually beneficial because Kmart is important in our community and across the country.”
The 450 Canton workers voted to join the UAW in December 2000.
More than 1,900 Kmart workers at distribution centers in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania are now covered by UAW-negotiated contracts.
The new contract includes a jointly negotiated grievance procedure, defined
seniority rights, wage improvements, restrictions on involuntary overtime,
the creation of a joint health and safety committee, and company recognition
of a union representation structure.
