A new five-year agreement between Local 1096 members and Coca-Cola in Indianapolis, Indiana, was overwhelmingly ratified, bringing workers numerous improvements, including annual raises of 50 cents an hour, and a $1,000 ratification bonus. The new contract also brings the union into new employee orientation meetings so that new employees will better understand union benefits and how to get involved in the union. The contract also brings workers double pay when their shift extends over the course of two days and expands discrimination protection to cover sexual orientation and gender identity. Uniform and footwear will be provided annually, and vacation and work-related injury policies were improved.

Today, with an expired contract, 1,500 unionized H&M workers at locations across Manhattan ramped up their campaign for a fair new contract. After months of negotiations, it was clear to the union that the company was not bargaining with any real intent to secure a new contract. A number of elected officials joined H&M retail professionals, who are members of Local 1102 of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), at the Herald Square Flagship location – the largest H&M store in the world, to rally for essential scheduling provisions that would eliminate “clopenings”, give part-time workers a minimum of 14-18 hours a week and the right to time off after five consecutive days worked, among many other fair union demands.

RWDSU Local 108 members at Woodlands Genesis health care center in New Jersey have ratified a new contract, their first union agreement since joining the RWDSU last year. The strong first contract was ratified by 100 percent of the membership.

Local 1976 members employed at Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated in Lafayette, Indiana, voted unanimously to approve a new five-year pact. It increases hourly wage rates by $2.15 per hour, and also includes a $500 ratification bonus.