Deere, UAW Begin Negotiations

Deere & Co. and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) have started negotiations on a new labor agreement.

The current six-year master agreement which covers approximately 10,100 production and maintenance employees at 12 Deere facilities expires October 1^st.

Brad Morris, Vice President for Labor Relations at Deere, said “The company looks forward to honoring the contributions of our employees through the bargaining process and reaching an agreement that demonstrates a vision for our shared success - and the success of all those who rely on us - well into the future.”

EDITOR’S TAKE:

It will be important for the two sides to reach an agreement in a timely manner. If they are unable to come to terms, it could lead to a shutdown at a very critical time for farmers as they enter or are in the midst of harvest. No breakdowns and the favorable weather are the two critical factors to a successful harvest. In 2021, there is already a shortage of some parts, any additional supply-line disruption could really be disastrous. Even more so if farmers start experiencing difficult weather issues as well. This would be a good time to let farmers know you support them and trust they have a smooth and safe harvest.