Approximately 84 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 1297, District 54, are set to strike at Libbey Glass in Toledo. The strike is scheduled to begin Friday, August 22 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. The union members are protesting what they describe as unfair labor practices and the company’s failure to negotiate a fair contract.
Union representatives say that the latest contract offer from Libbey Glass was overwhelmingly rejected by IAM Local 1297 members on August 9. Issues cited by the union include insufficient pay, mandatory overtime requirements limiting family time, removal of certain rights and protections for union members, and increased health insurance costs. Since the rejection, IAM says the company has not made any significant efforts to return to negotiations or improve its offer.
“IAM Local 1297 members have made tremendous sacrifices for this company after it came out of bankruptcy and liquidation in 2020,” said T. Dean Wright, Jr., President and Directing Business Representative of IAM District 54. “These members, their families and this community have been left with no choice but to take to the streets to protest the company’s unfair labor practices, protect the members’ rights and demand fairness, respect and dignity.”
David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, added: “The entire IAM Union stands united with our Local 1297 members at Libbey Glass. We are committed to winning a fair contract that reflects the skill, sacrifice and value our members bring to this company every single day.”
Libbey Glass emerged from bankruptcy proceedings in 2020 but now faces renewed labor challenges as workers demand improved terms.
