Contract Negotiations:
Here's What You Need to Know
Negotiation 101: Understanding the Bargaining Process
As we approach contract negotiations with the union, we want to share a quick overview of what you can expect during negotiations on your new contract. We want to equip you with some basic knowledge about negotiations and how/when we will update you on the progress.
At a very high level the negotiations process has five key phases:
1. Start
2. Proposals exchanged and ongoing discussions
3. Tentative Agreement Reached
4. Agreement Voted
5. Contract Ratified
To help you better understand what happens in each phase, we have created a flyer that explains the negotiations process in detail.
Click here to download and review the Negotiations 101 flyer.
Our Goals for This Negotiation
Open & Transparent Communication
Collaborative
& Productive Bargaining
Fair & Balanced Contract
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a union contract?
A union contract or collective bargaining agreement is an agreement between the company and the union. It sets forth the rules and regulations that govern the working relationship between associates, the employer and the union. It is for a set period of time (usually one (1) to five (5) years).
Will the company share the details of every proposal presented to the union?
Bargaining, also called negotiations, is a complicated process and is guided by labor law. The company is very limited on what we can and cannot say or share at certain times during this process.
At the very start of bargaining the company and union will exchange many ideas across the table. These ideas are informal and are meant to facilitate conversations and help the company and union come to an agreement.
What role does an associate play in the negotiations process?
During these negotiations, we encourage you to learn as much as you can. We will provide you information about key issues. These updates will be posted to this website as well as provided in huddles. The union will also share information with you.
It is important to read and consider all the information you receive so when the time comes for you to vote on an agreement, you can make the decision that is right for you.
Is the company against the union?
The company and union work together to negotiate a new contract. However, we may not agree on every proposal.
The negotiation process is about finding areas of agreement and working through issues where we disagree. It’s about allocating available resources in a balanced way for your wages, health care, retirement and other benefits. Our goal for this negotiation is a fair and balanced contract that meets your needs and helps to keep the company competitive.