Boniferro Mill Works employees vote in favour of new collective agreement

NEWS RELEASE
BONIFERRO MILL WORKS
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Jim Boniferro, president and CEO of Boniferro Mill Works; and Dan Cooper, United Steel Workers Union coordinator, announced today that the workers at Boniferro Mill Works in Sault Ste. Marie voted 100 per cent in favour of a new collective agreement. The current agreement was due to expire at midnight on Friday, Dec. 31, 2020. The new agreement runs from Jan. 1, 2021 to March 31, 2026.

“This agreement is another example of the team at Boniferro Mill Works understanding the goals and long term vision of the company. The hardwood industry has been hit hard in the last five-year cycle but Boniferro Mill Works has shown resilience and flexibility to adapt. The workers at the mill recognized the efforts made to keep all employees working since 2003 when Boniferro Mill Works purchased the mill. Every worker has contributed to our success to date,” stated Jim Boniferro, president and CEO of Boniferro Mill Works.  

The mill has seen more than $5 million in improvements in order to meet ever-changing markets and to introduce new products.

Dan Cooper added, “This agreement is a sign of confidence in the mill and a commitment from our members to contribute to the success of the mill. Our members are encouraged to see the efforts and investments the company has made to continue to operate the mill through some of the toughest market conditions.”

The five year contract offers workers improved wages, work benefits and pension provisions. The agreement also offers increased security and clear seniority rights.

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