Two Borden’s Dairy Plants Win Against Big Cheese in New Contract By Joining in Solidarity

Borden’s Dairy workers in Tennessee have doubled their strength at the bargaining table by combining two contracts into one and winning historic wage increases as a result. RWDSU members at the Chattanooga and Knoxville plants have ratified a new three-year agreement together, which came as the result of solidarity across two locations – proving that what it means to be in a union goes well beyond the pages of a contract.

In combining their strength, members for the first time ever have won a contract ratification bonus, which will immediately go to helping RWDSU members support their families. United, the workers won the highest ever wage increases at the dairy, which are front loaded to increase wages more quickly. Members also secured two additional annual paid holidays in the contract, making more time for their friends, families and communities.

“When the focus is on worker safety instead of profits, everyone wins. The provisions we worked hard to secure in this contract will go a long way to making sure everyone is safer at work, can bring home fair wages to their families and spend more time with them,” said RWDSU Local 323 President Wayne Smith, a Route Driver at the Borden’s Dairy Knoxville, Tennessee facility whose worked there for 20+ years. 

Too often financial incentives go to unsafe situations – putting profits over people. RWDSU members at Borden’s Dairy know their safety comes first, which is why the new contract also focuses on worker safety. Under new terms, members will also receive an increased bonus when there are no accidents at work. The bargaining committee secured a shoe allowance increase keeping up with inflation when it comes to the protective equipment necessary to keep safe at work.