08 Feb Local 358 (Richmond, Va.) Gains Additional Land-O-Sun Members
In the April 2009 organizing report, we had reported that BCTGM Local 358 (Richmond, VA) had organized more than 100 dairy workers employed at Land-O-Sun Dairy (a subsidiary of dairy giant Dean Foods) in Richmond, Va. This dairy produces all varieties of fresh milk under private label brands. More than 70 percent voted “Union Yes” in a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) election and stood up to professional union-busters, who the company hired to stifle the workers desire to be represented.
You would think the organizing story would end here – however, it does not. While negotiating a first contract with Land-O-Sun, other workers who were not included in the original bargaining unit or negotiations expressed a desire to be organized. They also wanted better working conditions and benefits for their families.
After forming an organizing committee and signing authorization cards, an NLRB election date was scheduled for December 17, 2009. We are pleased to report that all votes were cast for the Union! These workers are molders who make all of the plastic milk jugs and containers for all of the dairy products at the dairy.
Congratulations to Local 358’s Financial Secretary Ted Constable, President/Organizer Ray Daniels and the rank-and-file organizers from Local 358 who ran this organizing campaign. We would like to welcome our newest members from Land-O-Sun into the BCTGM family!