Posted on: Friday, January 28, 2005

Bakery workers reject offer

By Dan Nakaso
Advertiser Staff Writer

Unionized workers at Fresh Start Bakeries yesterday rejected the company's "last, best and final offer" that called for pay and pension increases but also for greater medical costs for employees, according to the Hawai'i Teamsters and Allied Workers, Local 996.

The Teamsters represent more than two dozen employees who make up Fresh Start Bakeries' production workers, according to Teamsters attorney Michael Chambrella.

The company produces baked goods, including hamburger buns, and is the primary supplier for McDonald's, Burger King, Jack in the Box, Wendy's, Love's Bakery, Costco and the military, according to the Teamsters.

Company officials did not return telephone calls seeking com-ment yesterday.

The two sides differ over wage and pension increases, but Teamsters negotiators also want to continue workers' current medical benefits with no cost to employees.

Reach Dan Nakaso at 525-8085 or dnakaso@honoluluadvertiser.com.