Mercury Marine confirmed on Friday that its union workers have agreed to accept the same labor agreement they previously rejected Aug. 23 and, as a result, Mercury will begin this year to consolidate manufacturing work in its Fond du Lac facilities.
A vote count was not released by the union, but officials of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers late Friday confirmed that the two-day voting process resulted in union ratification of the proposal.
“After weeks of intense discussions and completion of the voting process, we accept the union’s ratification of our contract proposal,” said Mark Schwabero, president of Mercury Marine. “As we’ve stated throughout this important process, comprehensive changes to wages, benefits and operational flexibility are necessary for Mercury to effectively compete in a smaller and fundamentally changed marketplace.”
Consolidation of work in Fond du Lac will include transition of work from the company’s Stillwater, Okla., facilities over the next 18-24 months. Schwabero thanked the Stillwater community and Mercury Marine employees for their support.
“Our employees in Stillwater and Fond du Lac, as well as the communities and the states of Oklahoma and Wisconsin, have been very supportive throughout this challenging period,” Schwabero said. “In both locations, community and business leaders as well as our employees have done everything possible to help ensure a sustainable future for Mercury Marine. We want to thank each of them for their commitment and focus, particularly during these last two months.”
Schwabero said the company will develop and execute a transition plan that balances the needs of employees, the communities and Mercury Marine’s future.
[B]About Mercury Marine:[/B] Mercury Marine is the world’s leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. A $2 billion division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), Mercury provides engines, boats, services and parts for recreational, commercial and government marine applications. Mercury’s industry-leading brand portfolio includes Mercury and Mariner outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages; MotorGuide trolling motors; Mercury propellers; Mercury inflatable boats; Mercury SmartCraft electronics; and Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils.By: Steve Fleming, Communications Manager / Mercury Marine
