More than 1,200 jobs at two major factories in Cedar Rapids were subject of labor talks this week.
The union representing nearly 700 workers at the Quaker Oats plant ratified a new contract last night and averted a strike. The deal reportedly includes annual pay hikes, a boost in pay for new hires and protections against working on holiday weekends.
The same union resumed talks today with management at the General Mills plant, where 520 workers seek a new contract — and a tentative agreement has been reached. Ratification could came late today. A strike was scheduled at that plant next week.
