The 2,300 workers at the plant process more than 5,000 head of cattle a day. Swift, the second-largest beef and pork processor in the world, owns 13 other plants across the United States and Australia, processing more than 7 million head of cattle annually.

The contract—which was approved by a 90 percent margin—includes a $1.50 an hour wage increase over five years, as well as measures that increase the union’s control over line speed. The Greeley Tribune reported that this contract provision drew applause from workers during the meeting on the contract vote. The union at the plant, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7, says the company routinely increases the line speed to unsafe levels whenever a breakdown slows production. Now a union representative will have to open the lock that allows the company to increase the speed.

The company also decided not to press for a reduction in the minimum workweek from 32 hours to 28 hours per week, one of the key demands in its first contract proposal. At the same time, workers accepted increased payments for health coverage as their insurance premiums, doctors visits, and prescription costs will go up under the new pact.
 
 
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Joining the resistance in the packinghouses
Socialist meat packers respond to new openings to build, strengthen union
Ohio opens new slaughterhouse in prison  
 
 
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