Indiana Coke Workers Win Gains

Local 1976 members employed at Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated in Lafayette, Indiana, voted unanimously to approve a new five-year pact. It increases hourly wage rates by $2.15 per hour, and also includes a $500 ratification bonus.

In addition, the new contract locks in the current percentage rate of what employees contribute toward the health insurance cost, and increases the monthly pension benefit amount each year. It increases the hourly shift differential and the number of job classifications eligible to receive an hourly differential for having a Class “A” driver license. An hourly differential will also be implemented for Equipment Service Technicians with an EPA Certification with a Federal Refrigeration Recovery License.

The new contact expands class protection for more Individuals against discrimination. It guarantees the union’s presence in New Employee Orientation Meetings and provides language improvements in the areas of union leave, jury duty, discharge and suspensions, and vacations.
The members of the union’s Bargaining Committee were Local 1976 President Todd Maiden, Edmund Archer, David Black, Brett Percefull, and Robert Tincher. They were assisted by Indiana Joint Board President Dave Altman.