“Filson offered us a small bag of peanuts for wages and then told us we might lose our jobs—but they weren’t sure. We pushed for more information and a timeline, but they had nothing to give us.”

—Jon, Union Bargaining Committee Member

On Friday, March 28, our union bargaining committee met with Filson to start contract negotiations. The company’s proposal was insulting—just $0.40 over three years. On top of that, they informed us that they might close the Kent distribution center.

The company told us in negotiations, the closure wasn’t definite—they were still deciding whether to extend their lease. However, after bargaining on Friday, we heard reports from members that they were told otherwise.

Members reported that the company claimed the union was notified months ago and that severance and layoff terms had already been agreed to. We want to be clear—this is not true.

We understand that this has caused confusion and mistrust, and members are understandably upset. The company is attempting to divide us with misinformation. Our focus is on negotiating the three-year agreement, and once a decision is made to close the Kent center, we will enter into effects bargaining to negotiate over layoffs and severance.

Despite these challenges, we did reach a few tentative agreements (TAs) on Friday, including limiting the hiring of temp workers to only peak season, so the company will stop replacing full-time jobs with rotating temp workers, and improvements to bereavement leave. We also proposed fair wage increases that keep up with inflation, and increased retirement contributions.

What’s next? We meet with Filson again on Wednesday, April 2, and on April 16-17. We will keep you updated after every session.

Join us for a member update meeting after bargaining on:

Wednesday, April 2
Katsu Burger
6621 S 211th St #103
Kent, WA
3:15 PM & 6:15 PM

If Filson is closing Kent in August, they must be honest and upfront so workers can plan for their future—and so we can negotiate fair severance and layoff terms.

If you have any questions, please contact your Union Representative Celia Ponce-Sanchez (206) 436-6581

Bargaining Team: Regina Hill & Jon Pryor