Strong Union Contract Brings Stability and Progress to Friedland Workers in Lansing, MI

Bargaining team members – Lou Gamelin, Joe McCormick, Patrick Jackson

In Lansing, Michigan, members of RWDSU Local 93 working at Friedland Industries, Inc. have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement that secures meaningful improvements in wages, benefits, and worker protections. The contract reflects a continued respect between RWDSU members and the leadership of the century-old, family-operated industrial salvage business.

The new three-year agreement ensures that Laborers, Operators, and Drivers at Friedland will maintain access to the RWDSU health care plan—with no increase in employee contributions for the duration of the contract. This commitment to affordable, quality health coverage provides peace of mind and financial stability for RWDSU families.

In addition to healthcare protections, the contract includes substantial annual wage increases across the board, improved personal leave time for all employees, and strengthened union and seniority rights clauses—further reinforcing fairness and transparency on the job.

RWDSU Local 93 President Lou Gamelin praised the efforts of the bargaining team and the collaborative tone of negotiations, saying “this contract reflects the mutual commitment to grow the business while providing continued stability for our members.”

The successful ratification reaffirms the value of union representation in securing dignity, voice, and progress for working people, which RWDSU Local 93 has provided at Friedland for decades.