Kellogg's workers end strike and approve new contract

Employees at Kellogg's who have been on strike since October have agreed to ratify a tentative labor contract at the company's four U.S. cereal plants. The contract would cover approximately 1,400 workers who are represented by the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union at plants in Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.

On Tuesday, Kellogg's announced that the new contract provides immediate, across-the-board wage increases and enhanced benefits for all. The contract also provides an accelerated, defined path to top-tier wages which is a major sticking point for the workers and benefits for transitional employees. Steve Cahillane, Kellogg's CEO said in a statement, "We are pleased that we have reached an agreement that brings our cereal employees back to work." Workers at Kellogg's have been laid off since October 5 at plants in Battle Creek, Michigan, Omaha, Nebraska; Lancaster, Pennsylvania; and Memphis, Tennessee These plant locations make the most popular brands of cereals including Apple Jacks, Frosted Flakes and Rice Krispies.

Kellogg's said that the workers would return to their jobs on Monday after the holiday. Meanwhile, the BCTGM International Union said that the new contract is a win for the workers. Anthony Shelton, the union's president said in a statement, "This agreement makes gains and does not include any concessions." 

Source: CBS News