Union files for election at Ikea's first U.S. factory

Source: LA Times

By Nathaniel Popper,

A labor union looking to organize Ikea's first American factory has asked the government to allow workers to vote on whether they want representation.

The International Assn. of Machinists and Aerospace Workers filed its request with the National Labor Relations Board on Monday along with signature cards from what it believes is a majority of the eligible employees at the Danville, Va., factory. The plant, which produces bookcases and coffee tables, is run by Ikea's manufacturing subsidiary, Swedwood.

Workers at the plant have complained about low wages, discrimination and long working hours. The union and Ikea had begun working toward a cooperative election process. But in the last month discussions between the two sides have fallen apart and the union filed for its election without notifying the company.

"We just decided this has gone on too long," said Bill Street, the union's representative in Danville.


Read more: http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-ikea-20110623,0,7653626.story

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( Steve Sheppard, Associated Press / June 23, 2011 )

Employees Herman Richardson, left, and Paul Gentry prepare pieces of furniture for packing at the Swedwood factory in Danville, Va., in May 2008. Swedwood is Ikea’s manufacturing subsidiary.