Coffee By Design, a pioneering fair-trade coffee shop in Maine, has successfully ratified a landmark union contract with its baristas, represented by the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA). This agreement marks a significant achievement as it's the first for an independent coffee shop in the state. The contract includes immediate and future pay raises, rewarding long-term employees more significantly. It also establishes a Labor-Management Committee aimed at fostering better communication and collaboration between staff and management. Key features of the contract include wage increases from about 6% to 9% depending on tenure and prior wages, alongside additional adjustments on work anniversaries. This contract is seen as a model for positive labor relations in the industry, showcasing the benefits of mutual respect and collective negotiation.
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