Bargaining resumes as IAM strike continues at Belshaw

AUBURN, Wash. (Mar. 28, 2013) — On March 24, the 62 employees of Belshaw Adamatic Bakery Group represented by IAM Local 79 voted unanimously to strike their employer. Since that time, with the picket line standing strong, the union reports that management has agreed to return to the bargaining table. Negotiations were scheduled to resume Thursday. (For the latest, check out IAM 79’s Belshaw strike page.)

Employees offered a medical plan that saved the company more than $20,000 per month, but asked that part of those savings be returned to employees in higher wages instead of a one-time signing bonus.

The Local 79 members produce high-quality bakery equipment that is sold around the world. Many of the striking members have been with Belshaw for more than 30 years and have consistently met the challenges of competing in an ever-changing global manufacturing environment.

“IAM members at Belshaw are fighting for issues that will benefit all workers,” said Western Territory GVP Gary Allen. “We are proud of their courage to stand up for their beliefs and we will stand with them in their fight against corporate greed.”

Here is a longtime Belshaw employee explaining why he’s on strike:

Feel free to show your support of these workers on the picket line at 814 44th Street NW in Auburn, even if it’s just driving by and honking! Also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

ALSO at The Stand — IAM members vote to strike Belshaw Adamatic in Auburn (Mar. 26)