UFCW 1006A members at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in London have voted to ratify their new union contract.
“It was a fantastic contract and the members voted overwhelmingly for it,” said Mekonnen Geresin, a member of the negotiating committee. “The membership are happy with the agreement.”
Mekonnen said he was happy that the members achieved better wages, secured improved vacation language and received bonuses.
“The contract process went well and I was impressed with the way that the union dealt with the management,” Mekonnen said. “The members know that we were doing our best.”
The term of the contract is December 11, 2024 to December 11, 2027 and covers 64 members.
Patty Stevens, a member of the negotiating committee, said the new contract provides part-time workers with more opportunities to accrue hours to attain benefits.
“Everybody is getting something in this agreement—it is a good contract,” Patty said. “Overall, most of the members like the contract and we made gains.”
The negotiating committee included members, Mekonnen Geresin, Patty Stevens and Union Representative Greg Penner.
“UFCW 1006A representation is life-changing for workers, and this contract demonstrates our union’s power and ability to improve our members’ rights and livelihoods,” said President Wayne Hanley. “I’m proud to congratulate our negotiating committee for their hard work and thank our members for their support and participation throughout this process.”
Highlights
- Wage increases over the term of the contract
- Signing bonus
- Increased boot allowance for eligible members
- Increased paid vacation time
- Seniority and cross-training language to improve access to benefits and paid sick days for members who work part time
