The workers have been in negotiations for a new contract since the summer, and voted down a proposed contract, 372-13.
Employees told the New County Gazette the proposed contract sought to change the company’s shifts so that employees could be required to work weekends. A union representative said Heaven Hill’s wages are no longer competitive.
In a statement, Heaven Hill said:
“Since the company was founded, the support of our employees has been a source of pride and we have had productive conversations with the union for several months now regarding components of the contract. We will continue to collaborate with UFCW leadership toward passage of this top-of-class workforce package.”
The strike comes just before the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, which kicks of Thursday (9/16).