Workers at Bergen Logistics in North Bergen rallied Tuesday alongside U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez, calling on the company to finalize their first union contract nearly a year after employees received union recognition.
The rally took place at the Bergen Logistics facility at 5903 West Side Avenue and included workers and representatives of the Laundry, Distribution and Food Service Joint Board of Workers United, an SEIU affiliate. About 160 employeeswork at the facility, according to Hudson County View.
Union representatives said workers are seeking more affordable health insurance, additional paid time off and safer working conditions. They also raised concerns about extreme heat inside the warehouse and the cost of the company’s health insurance plan. These claims reflect statements from workers and union representatives and have not been independently established.
According to union representatives, workers at the warehouse voted to unionize about a year ago but have not yet reached their first collective bargaining agreement.
Menendez, whose congressional district includes North Bergen, attended the rally in support of the workers. Hudson County View reported that Menendez and Rep. Donald Norcross previously sent a letter to company executives expressing concern about the length of negotiations and reported workplace conditions.
Bergen Logistics is part of Elanders Group, a Sweden-based logistics company. The North Bergen facility handles warehouse and distribution operations, including services for apparel clients.
Sources: Hudson County View; Workers United / SEIU reporting; UNI Global Union background.
By NJ RADAR Team