By Seth Gellman
On Saturday, the United Automobile Workers (UAW) announced that they reached a deal with Deere & Company. This could end a nationwide strike that has been going on since mid-October. The deal still has to be approved by the union’s members.
The strike began after UAW members rejected an initial contract that guaranteed a 5-6% increase in wages for workers and 3% raises in 2023 and 2025. According to the director of the union’s farm equipment department, Chuck Browning, UAW negotiators “focused on improving the areas of concern for our members” after the first deal was rejected.
The statement said that the agreement “continues to provide the highest quality health care benefits in the industry.” One of the main demands from union workers is a better pension, according to somebody with knowledge of the negotiations.
The strike came at a time when other unions were striking as well, such as Kellogg’s 1,000 worker strike or a strike by more than 2,000 hospital workers in Buffalo. Amidst a labor shortage caused in part by the pandemic, companies are in a more vulnerable position, allowing workers to strike and push for better wages. This may lead to higher food costs due to increased input prices and the ongoing labor shortage.
The strikes come as Deere reports $4.7 million in the first nine months of the fiscal year, a significant increase from $2 million the year before. The company expects to earn over $5.7 million total by the end of the year.
