Du Nord Craft Spirits Will Unionize with Support from CEO

Du Nord Craft Spirits’ production team plans to unionize. A recently signed agreement recognizes UNITE HERE! Local 17, AFL-CIO as the employees’ exclusive bargaining agent. The Minnesota hospitality union currently represents more than 6,000 workers in a variety of venues including hotels, restaurants, sports complexes, airports, and others.

The staff will enter discussions with the support of owner and CEO Chris Montana. “We voluntarily recognize this union out of respect for our staff, and we plan to negotiate in good faith,” he said.

UNITE HERE’s central mission is to create family-sustaining work environments for employees in traditionally low-wage jobs. By unionizing, hospitality workers receive health insurance, pension plans, and the ability and opportunity to air grievances about working conditions. The Employee Assistance Program offers a variety of counseling services including stress management and substance abuse support.

Reopening and restructuring Twin Cities businesses in a post-COVID space is an opportunity to create sustainable models for workers moving forward. Du Nord Craft Spirits recognizing and supporting the unionization of individuals that have always been essential is a step in the right direction.

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