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Dec 6, 2011 3:50 PM

Polar Tank Trailer LLC announced December 5 that employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 165 have elected to strike the company’s manufacturing facility in Opole MN. In response, Polar has activated contingencies to ensure the continued production of tank trailers at Opole.

The Opole plant produces stainless steel, aluminum, and carbon steel tank trailers for liquid bulk products. IAM Local 165 represents approximately 365 employees at the Opole plant. The collective bargaining agreement between Polar and the union expired on November 30.

Polar Tank’s facilities in Holdingford MN and Springfield MO are not affected. Within the past year, Polar Tank secured new five-year labor agreements with employees at those locations. The company’s wages and benefits are recognized as the premier compensation package in the industry, according to company officials.

“Investing in our employees is one way we can help our customers be more competitive and efficient,” said Frank Lukacs, president of Polar Tank Trailer. “We’re committed to negotiating an agreement that will benefit our employees and help us meet the quality, cost, and delivery expectations of our customers.”

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