IAM Union Local 778 members voted on April 27 to reject the latest contract proposal from Olin Corporation’s Winchester division, choosing to continue their strike for a fair agreement.
The vote follows weeks of picketing that began on April 4, as workers seek improved wages, better working conditions, and relief from excessive overtime. The union said the company’s most recent offer did not address these key issues.
Scott Brown, IAM Local 778 Directing Business Representative, said: “The members of this local have taken long overdue action to remedy Olin Winchester’s bad business practices. Olin has an extremely high turnover rate, and we reiterate how overworked our members are. Now, when loyal workers stand up for better treatment for the betterment of everyone, they are met with disrespect.”
Sam Cicinelli, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President, said: “We are committed to reaching a fair agreement for these members. This company should get serious about making an offer with meaningful improvements that will help them retain a strong, skilled workforce with proper compensation and work-life balance. Until then, this strike continues.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant added: “The IAM Union stands in full solidarity with our members who have spoken again — the conditions of Olin’s offer are unacceptable. Our members are determined to stand strong on the picket line until Olin Winchester returns with a proposal that respects their contribution, and their union supports them fully in their fight for fairness.”
Union officials said the rejected contract included only minimal changes from previous offers. The four-year deal proposed a slight increase in cumulative compensation by year four but did not keep pace with cost-of-living increases or provide significant relief from mandatory overtime requirements.
Throughout the ongoing strike at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, union members emphasized both their role in national defense production and their demands for fair pay and humane scheduling.
