Reference no: EM133028909

Stopping Unionization at Packer Industries

It appears that the rumors about a union organizing effort at Packer Industries are true.

Jay Golden, the Director of HR, just confirmed with a supervisor that the employees have started signing authorization cards. Jay suspected this was coming because he had received an increased number of complaints about pay and working conditions over the last several months. He learned that a small group of employees are leading efforts to build interest in a union and Jay is very concerned. He is convinced that a union would create long-term challenges for the company and his instincts tell him he should do whatever is necessary to discourage employees from organizing.

The company's CEO agrees with Jay and together they have started efforts to convince employees that they are better off without the union. The CEO started by holding a mandatory meeting where she made it very clear that if the union is certified, they can all count on a reduction in pay and benefits. Jay also has identified one of the leaders of the unionizing efforts. He's decided to transfer him to the second shift where there are fewer employees for him to talk to about the union. Jay is sure that this employee's transfer will make it clear to all employees that Packer Industries will do whatever it takes to prevent them from unionizing.

What is your insight about this case?

Another question: How would the employees protect themselves against unlawful labor practices? Explain.