Hormel Workers in Austin Overwhelmingly Reject Contract Offer

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Austin, MN (KROC-AM News) - The risk of a strike by union employees of Hormel Foods in Austin has grown with the rejection of what had been termed a "final offer" from the company this week.

The United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 663 issued a statement today indicating its members voted overwhelmingly to reject Hormel's final offer, saying “it is simply not good enough." The statement went on to say that the company's record profits are not being shared fairly and the union is demanding Hormel "does better and comes to the table for a fair agreement quickly."

Hormel also issued a statement expressing disappointment in the outcome of the vote. The company described its offer as a "significant contract package." Hormel also stated the company remains optimistic about reaching an agreement and indicated both parties have agreed to a contract extension until October 8 to continue negotiations.

More than 1700 workers represented by Local 663 are employed at the Hormel plant in Austin.