Big Wage Improvements With New Quaker Oats Contract

A 20 percent general wage increase and $1,500 ratification bonus are among the highlights of a new four-year contract for Local 110 members at Quaker Oats in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The contract, ratified on November 1, also brings significant improvement to new hire vacation schedules as well as increased starting pay for new hires.

“This contract will help us continue to bring quality people into the Quaker Oats plant, ensuring continued success in the future,” said Local 110 President Shane Forbes.

The agreement also adds three paid sick days, bringing the total to six, and increases training pay and safety shoe allotments. The incentive bonus for achieving plant production goals was nearly doubled, and an inclement weather policy will be adopted to ensure our members have protection traveling in dangerous weather conditions. The contract covers almost 700 employees at the plant.

Serving on the Negotiating Committee were: (Front row, l to r) RWDSU Representative Roger Grobstich, Local 110 President Shane Forbes, Health and Safety Director Kelly Cavalie, 3rd Vice President Mark Woldruff, (back row, l to r) 2nd Vice President Dan Teff, 1st Vice President Seth McDaniel, Sec.-Treas. Jason Sennett, and Recorder Flip Ondler. Assisting also was RWDSU Representative Bob Dixon.