Kruger Products Unionized Employees on Strike at Crabtree Plant and Joliette Warehouse

Friday, 31 May 2024, 18:44

Kruger Products' unionized employees at the Crabtree plant and Joliette warehouse have initiated a strike. The company's contingency plan aims to ensure the continued supply of tissue products, leveraging its other plants.

On May 31, 2024, 482 unionized employees at Kruger Products' Crabtree plant and Joliette warehouse commenced a strike at 10:00 p.m. Despite ongoing negotiations since September 2023, the union decided to strike, leading to a significant impact on the company's operations.

Kruger Products, known for manufacturing high-quality tissue products, has implemented a contingency plan to maintain the supply chain. The company is utilizing its nine other plants across the network to ensure the continual delivery of tissue products to customers.

Dino Bianco, CEO of Kruger Products, expressed disappointment with the union's decision. He highlighted that the company has always treated its employees fairly, offering competitive compensation packages. The company remains hopeful that the union will return to the bargaining table to finalize a new collective agreement beneficial to all parties involved.

Impact on Operations

The strike at the Crabtree plant and Joliette warehouse has led to a halt in routine operations, necessitating the activation of Kruger Products' contingency plan. This plan includes leveraging the production capabilities of the nine other plants within the company's network.

These measures are critical to ensure that customers continue to receive tissue products without interruption. Kruger Products aims to mitigate any potential supply chain disruptions by maximizing the efficiency and output of its other facilities.

Negotiations and Future Prospects

Negotiations between Kruger Products and the union have been ongoing since September 2023. Dino Bianco emphasized the company's commitment to fair treatment and competitive compensation for its employees. However, the union's decision to strike highlights the challenges in reaching a mutual agreement.

The company remains optimistic about resuming negotiations and is prepared to return to the bargaining table. The goal is to secure a collective agreement that aligns with the interests of both the employees and the company.

As Kruger Products navigates this challenging period, the focus remains on maintaining operations and meeting customer demands. The company's proactive approach through its contingency plan showcases its dedication to operational resilience and customer satisfaction.

About Kruger Products and KP Tissue Inc.

Kruger Products is the leading manufacturer of tissue products in Canada, serving household, industrial, and commercial needs. With around 2,800 employees and ten production facilities across North America, the company is a significant player in the tissue products market.

KP Tissue Inc. holds a 12.8% equity interest in Kruger Products. This relationship allows KP Tissue to play a crucial role in the strategic and operational aspects of Kruger Products' business. The ongoing strike and subsequent contingency measures are significant developments for both entities.

Forward-Looking Statements

The company’s forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and expectations. These include the anticipated effectiveness of the contingency plan to ensure the uninterrupted supply of tissue products. Nonetheless, several factors could affect actual outcomes and the ability to meet these forward-looking objectives.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


FAQ


What led to the strike by unionized employees at Kruger Products?

The strike was initiated by unionized employees at the Crabtree plant and Joliette warehouse after ongoing negotiations since September 2023 could not yield an agreement.

How is Kruger Products addressing the supply chain disruption caused by the strike?

Kruger Products has activated its contingency plan, leveraging the production capabilities of its nine other plants to ensure the uninterrupted supply of tissue products to customers.

What are the company's views on the strike?

CEO Dino Bianco expressed disappointment with the union's decision to strike but reaffirmed the company’s commitment to negotiate in good faith and treat employees fairly with competitive compensation.

What is the role of KP Tissue Inc. in relation to Kruger Products?

KP Tissue Inc. holds a 12.8% equity interest in Kruger Products and is involved in strategic and operational decisions affecting the company.

What future actions are planned by Kruger Products regarding the strike?

Kruger Products aims to resume negotiations with the union to finalize a new collective agreement that benefits both employees and the company.

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