Approximately 1,350 workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 778 are increasing efforts to reach an agreement with Olin Winchester, according to an April 9 statement. The workers have been on strike since April 4 at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri.
The ongoing labor dispute comes as global conflicts are escalating and demand for U.S. military ammunition remains high. The Lake City facility is described as a critical part of the national defense industrial base, manufacturing small arms ammunition such as 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm, and .50-caliber rifle rounds for the U.S. military.
IAM Local 778 said its negotiating committee met with company representatives earlier this week to discuss concerns including pay that keeps up with inflation, high turnover rates, and excessive mandatory overtime. The union reported that little production is currently taking place at the plant due to the absence of its workforce.
“The company needs to recognize the highly skilled work being done at this facility and deliver a contract that keeps up with inflation, reduces excessive mandatory overtime and addresses the high turnover that is hurting this operation,” said IAM Union Local 778 Directing Business Representative Scott Brown. “Our members are ready to get back to work, but it takes a fair agreement that reflects their value and the critical role they play.” IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli said: “This facility plays a vital role in our nation’s defense, and it takes a highly trained, dedicated workforce to keep it running at full capacity… Olin Winchester needs to come to the table with a serious proposal that respects these workers and ensures the long-term stability of this operation.” IAM Union International President Brian Bryant added: “As global conflicts continue to escalate, the importance of this work cannot be overstated… Our members are standing up for a fair contract that reflects their skill, their sacrifice and the essential role they play in supporting our nation and its allies.”
Olin Corp., which operates Olin Winchester at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant under federal contract terms, has received more than $53 million in state and local subsidies since 2001 along with over $81 million in loans or other public support. According to union sources cited in their statement, more than $1.2 million has come from Missouri tax credits or subsidies.
The union plans a solidarity rally on Saturday April 11 while negotiations continue between both sides.
