Yet another big hurdle has been cleared in the ongoing – and amazing – story of the UE members who worked at the former Republic Windows and Doors factory in Chicago. UE's Western Region has issued a press release announcing that the sale of the plant to a new owner – Serious Materials – has been finalized and that all workers will be rehired as the plant ramps up production and continue to be represented by their local union, UE Local 1110. These workers captured worldwide headlines in December when they occupied the plant in the wake of an abrupt closing.
Serious Materials Purchase of Republic Windows and Doors Factory Finalized
Agreement reached with UE:
Former Republic employees to go back to work
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Mark Meinster, United Electrical Workers, 773-405-3022
Abe Mwaura, United Electrical Workers, 312-829-8300
Chicago, IL, February 26, 2009 - The sale of the former Republic Windows and Doors company to California based Serious Materials has been finalized with the approval of the bankruptcy court.
Serious Materials has also reached agreement with UE Local 1110, ensuring that all former Republic employees will be rehired at their former rate of pay. The UE will continue to represent workers at the factory.
“We are happy that the purchase of our former plant by Serious Materials has been approved. Our members are ready to get back to work and make great energy efficient green windows for Serious. We look forward to working together to create green jobs at living wages,” said Armando Robles, President of UE Local 1110.
“We have all been working hard to get our factory re-opened since December 10, 2008. We are so glad this day has come,” said UE Local Vice-President Melvin Maclin.
An announcement regarding the opening day of the new Serious Material production facility will be forthcoming.