Over 300 members of UFCW Local No. 86D in Muscatine, Iowa, were locked out without warning by their employer, Grain Processing Corporation, on August 22, 2008. Grain Processing Corporation had been thought to be among the top companies in its industry and in over 60 years of a bargaining relationship, there has never been a strike. The primary issues leading to this lockout during negotiations were the company's intention to outsource jobs, change seniority rules, and implement a two-tier wage and retirement package.
The members of Local 86D are now approaching one year of this lockout which has placed an incredible amount of. stress and burden on our members due to the loss of their income and benefits. This prolonged lockout has affected the entire city of Muscatine.
International International President Joe Hansen, along with International Vice President George Orlando, have advised us that the membership remains 100 percent unified in their resolve to reach a fair and equitable settlement and is extremely grateful for all the support from the International and many of its locals. The economic pressure on the members has increased significantly and Local 860 is concerned that it's Hardship Fund will soon be exhausted. Financial relief efforts are being coordinated through UFCW Local 86D's Hardship Fund.

UFCW 1167 and our International Union will continue to support this effort, but more help is greatly needed. Help give Local 86D members the support and assistance they need to sustain their lives until they return to work with a fair contract. Anyone interested in joining the fight and willing to make a contribution please contact:

Local No. 86D Hardship Fund
Post Office Box 1514
Muscatine, Iowa 527619
(563) 263-5187