It’s Better in a Union
March 2nd, 2026
Members at Kowalski’s Win More Than $5,000 in 401(k) Contributions
Earlier in 2025, it came to our attention that Kowalski’s had exceeded their contractual limit of Group 3 employees by 57 workers.
UFCW 663 took action — we filed a grievance and won a settlement. As a result, 17 members at Kowalski’s are receiving a combined total of $5,063 in extra 401k contributions.
In addition to this, 24 UFCW 663 members have been reclassified from Group 3 Part-Time to Regular Part-Time. These members now have access to higher maximum hours, 401(k) contributions, and faster PTO accrual.
JBS Workers Have Discipline Thrown Out & Win Jobs Back
Members at JBS in Worthington have reported an increased number of unjust discipline from HR, creating uncertainty and hardship for affected workers.
Through the grievance process, our Union stepped in to enforce the contract and challenge unfair disciplinary actions. In the last 3 months of 2025 alone, 8 workers were able to return to work after our Union successfully fought for their jobs back, demonstrating the critical role of strong representation on the shop floor.
Members at QPP Win Back PTO Used For ESST
Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) became law in Minnesota in January 2024. Quality Pork Processors (QPP) in Austin, MN was making employees use their vacation time to cover ESST related absences. Our Union filed a grievance, and in late December after escalating to arbitration, the arbitrator ruled in UFCW 663’s favor.
Nearly 130 members who used vacation time as sick and safe time in 2024 or 2025 have been awarded those days back as additional vacation days for 2026.
UFCW 663 Provides Wins for Workers
If you’re having an issue at work, please contact your steward, your Union representative, or the Member Action Center at 1-800-292-4105 or mac@ufcw663.org.
This report includes several highlights from the representation work performed at UFCW 663 – this is not an exhaustive list of all grievances and settlements.