Kohler, UAW come to terms

Kohler Co. and United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 833, which represents associates employed in production and skilled trades positions at the company’s Village of Kohler and Town of Mosel manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin, have reached agreement on a new five-year labor contract.

“This new agreement will help sustain the long-term competitiveness of our Sheboygan-area operations, provide good-paying jobs and benefits, and ensure future opportunities for rewarding careers with skills training and advancement for our associates,” said David Kohler, chair and CEO of Kohler Co.

Union members ratified the new employment contract in a vote conducted late this summer. The renewed contract runs through July 30, 2028.

“The new contract addressed the key issues that are important to our membership,” said Tim Tayloe, UAW Local 833 president.

“The wage increases and retirement benefits will help Kohler hire and retain the best workers in the region. I’m glad we were able to reach a new agreement that will help everyone succeed over the long term,” said Tayloe.

The contract provides increased wages and enhanced benefits including high-quality wellness offerings and health care, pension, and 401(k).

“For 150 years, Kohler has provided meaningful work and invested in the careers of our associates, and we are proud to be an employer of choice in Sheboygan County.  We appreciate the partnership and collaborative approach of the UAW Local 833 leadership and the membership in ratifying this agreement,” said the Kohler CEO.

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, an hour north of Milwaukee, Kohler Co., with more than 44,000 associates, has been a global leader in design and innovation.

The company said it is: “Dedicated to providing gracious living through kitchen and bath products; luxury cabinetry, tile and lighting; distributed energy solutions – home energy, industrial energy systems, and powertrain technologies – and luxury hospitality experiences.”