Workers at the Wedge Community Co-Op in Minneapolis voted overwhelmingly in favor of forming a union yesterday, according to Local 1189 of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union.
In an election overseen by the National Labor Relations Board, Wedge workers voted 76-31 in favor of a voice on the job.
Wedge employees organized their union drive around a variety of issues, including a perceived rise in “corporate culture” at the co-op, a lack of equal opportunity and favoritism among management. They are hopeful, Local 1189 organizer Abraham Wagnoo said, that gaining a collective voice is a step toward creating a “sustainable system of jobs and food” that is consistent with the co-op’s values-driven mission.
The Wedge agreed to remain neutral regarding the organizing drive, abiding by the terms an agreement reached with Local 1189 four years ago when workers at the Wedge’s Co-Op Partners Warehouse organized their union.
Warehouse workers ratified a new three-year agreement last month. The contract guarantees annual wage increases for all employees and improves language regarding sick leave, the union reported.
Union Advocate 