The realignment will allow TCCA to operate more efficiently, reduce the transportation costs associated with moving cheese between facilities before the final distribution to customers, and increase responsiveness to its growing customer base, according to the company.
This decision means the reduction of the number of packaging positions at the Tillamook Cheese Factory. TCCA presented a creative severance package, which was agreed to by Teamsters Local 58, and will be made available to the 47 affected employees.
Harold Strunk, TCCA president and CEO, said: “We are aware of the difficulties our employees will experience as a result of this change and have created a quality severance package that will allow our people to choose what best meets their personal needs. We also are coordinating with local agencies to provide important resources to assist them during their transition.”
As a part of the transitional services agreement, TCCA will be coordinating various displacement services for the employees which are not required by the agreement. Those details were recently shared with members of the packaging department.
In addition to the severance packages, the association is making available several employment resources. TCCA has arranged with WorkSource Oregon (US) to provide training such as resume writing, computer skills and interview skills.
On-site visits with pension and medical plan administrators are being scheduled for impacted employees to discuss their pension and health insurance options. Additionally, TCCA is partnering with the Tillamook Bay Community College to offer classes for employees who are considering a change in their career path.
Walter LaChapelle, Teamsters Local 58 business representative, said: “The severance package offerings and transition services were arrived at and mutually agreed upon in an efficient, structured and professional manner. The designed structure of this transitional plan will help our affected members who experience displacement from this process.”
Source: Tillamook Cheese Factory
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