Minnesota Dairy Workers Win Wage and Benefit Gains in New Contract

The Facts -

Significant Achievements for Minnesota Dairy Workers Following Strike Authorization

Press Contact: Lena Melentijevic Phone: (347) 208-2279 Email: LMelentijevic@teamster.org

(FARMINGTON, Minn.) – In a decisive vote, over 110 Teamsters Local 471 members at Kemps in Farmington, Minnesota, have approved a pivotal two-year contract. This new agreement introduces enhancements in wages, reduces the health care cap by two percent, and provides additional benefits.

As a crucial entity of the Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), Kemps plays a significant role in the Midwest dairy sector. Workers at the Farmington site are responsible for producing and packaging well-known products including Top the Tater and Kemps cottage cheese.

Lyndon Johnson, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 471, expressed, “This agreement is proof that when workers stay engaged and stick together, they can raise standards for themselves and their families. Our members remained focused throughout bargaining and secured meaningful improvements that reflect the value they bring to this company every single day. I’m proud to say that they earned everything in this new contract.”

The agreement not only provides better wages and health care conditions but also increases contributions by two percent to the Central States Pension Fund. Additionally, there is a significant 400 percent rise in the night shift differential, benefitting over 70 percent of the bargaining unit.

Ryan Just, a Kemps employee and steward with Local 471, noted, “This contract addresses the issues we identified as priorities from the start of bargaining. We stayed united, focused on what mattered most, and got a contract that will make a real difference for us and our families. We’re proud of what we accomplished together.”

Representing workers across Minnesota in sectors such as dairy processing, warehousing, and distribution, Teamsters Local 471 continues to stand for improved labor conditions. Further information can be found at local471.com.

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