UFCW Local 74D ratified a new five-year collective bargaining unit agreement with MGP Ingredients, Inc., in Atchison, Kansas. The agreement takes effect on Aug. 3, 2009 and extends through Aug. 31, 2014.

Local 74D President Jason Simmers expressed appreciation “to both sides of the negotiating process for efforts which ultimately resulted in our new, multi-year contract with the company.”

He added: “I believe this contract shows our willingness to improve the conditions at MGPI given these challenging economic times… We hope to help support a stronger, more secure company for the future.”

The previous contract Local 74D members and MGPI expired almost a year ago in August 2008. Workers had authorized a work stoppage for almost three weeks in late September to early October during tough negotiations, but returned to work when the company agreed to extend the previous contract through August 2009 during bargaining.