Originally Posted by SaltyDog

The IPA rejected all contract concessions offered to avert the furlough. Weakness????
We didn't concede any pay. We voluntarily took unpaid vacation to reduce crews on the payroll. UPS cancelled all unpaid vacations (except those on said vacation on Feb 8). In any event, we were taking care of our own, following one of our companies principles ironically enough.

We are going to cover the COBRA for the furloughed crews. IMO, None of this is a sign of weakness. UPS is once again proving their ability in making the next contract more expensive and contentious since they are driving the union closer and will expect more, not less, as the companies profits are rebounding along with volumes. UPS just managed to actually motivate most of the union to really start to get into the nuts and bolts of the contract. Until now, IMO, most of the union were happy to waive the contract through ignorance. UPS just provided the union with a boost to "follow the contract' and nothing else for the next 20 or so years. Not so smart long term. Especially considering that they could have had the money anyway through the IPA. Penny wise and pound foolish. BTW, the 300 UPS says to be furloughed are now called "Spartans". That will last the rest of their careers and be shared with every new hire. Way to go Atlanta. Brilliant play!