Following a strike last month over pay disputes and worker conditions at the JBS Worthington Minnesota plant, the union has announced workers have ratified a new contract.

United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1161 said the five-year contract would see more than US$23m “pumped into the local economy” with a 12.8% increase in pay over the life of the agreement, maintaining of affordable health care costs and the establishment of a low-cost health care clinic in Worthington.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Workers had call the strike after the Brazil-based meat giant “made no offer of any wage increases, and has repeatedly proposed a health care plan that could drastically increase out-of-pocket costs for workers, while reducing coverage,” said the union.

The JBS Worthington plant employs more than 1800 people.

“This is a great agreement, not only for JBS workers but the entire Worthington community,” said Mike Potter, president of Local 1161. “This contract means that more than $23m dollars will be pumped into the local economy over the next five years.”

Just Food Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Food Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now