International Paper and USW Reach Agreement on Mill Bargaining

The agreement, which was ratified by union members on Aug. 23, continues quality healthcare benefits, enhances company contributions to its retiree medical savings plan, and offers to improve employees’ pension benefits. The agreement also defines hourly wage increases over the four-year extension of each local contract and establishes a separate wage structure for new hires. Additionally, the agreement lays the groundwork for increased collaboration on employee health and safety as well as on public policy issues. The agreement prohibits labor strikes and lock-outs during the term of the current mill contracts and their four-year extensions. International Paper will continue to bargain local mill labor contracts as each nears expiration. Contract expiration dates are staggered over a four-year cycle.