IAM Local 778 Members Reject Management Offer, Continue Strike at Olin Winchester

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) Local 778 members have voted to reject the latest contract offer from Olin Corps.' Winchester division, choosing to remain on strike in their ongoing fight for a fair agreement.

The membership voted on Monday, April 27, with a majority deciding the company's proposal failed to address key reasons workers went on strike: wages that keep up with inflation, working conditions, and relief from excessive overtime.

The strike, which began on April 4, will continue as workers push for a contract that reflects the value of their labor and the critical role they play at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant.

""The members of this local have taken long overdue action to remedy Olin Winchester's bad business practices," said IAM Local 778 Directing Business Representative Scott Brown. "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."

"We are committed to reaching a fair agreement for these members," said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam CIcinelli. "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."

"The IAM Union stands in full solidarity with our members who have spoken again - the conditions of Olin's offer are unacceptable," said IAM International President Brian Bryant. "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."

The rejected contract offer included only minimal changes from the previously rejected offer. It includes a slight increase to the total, cumulative compensation amount of the four year-contract for each employee by year four of the agreement, but that increase still fails to keep up with the cost-of-living. The offer provides only minor relief from the company's brutal mandatory overtime practices.

Throughout the strike, IAM Local 778 members have continued to highlight the importance of their work in supporting national defense, while demanding fair compensation and humane scheduling practices.

IAM representatives emphasized that the union remains ready to negotiate at any time.