Updated Aug. 5, 1:11 p.m.

According to a press release from the International Assn. of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, negotiations on a contract covering John Deere's Horicon Works facility in Horicon, Wis., have begun. The Horicon facility manufacturers lawn and garden equipment, as well as utility vehicles.

The press release stated the contract covers almost 750 members, with the current contract set to expire Oct. 1. It also states around 60% of the membership has never participated in collective bargaining before.

IAM District 10 Directing Business Representative Alex Hoeksta said in the press release the union wanted Deere to place an emphasis on retirement benefits and eliminate 3rd party insourcing. 

The Horicon Works facility was not part of the strike put on last year by UAW-represented John Deere employees.

John Deere confirmed in an Aug. 5 statement to Rural Lifestyle Dealer that the current Horicon Works contract was ratified July 1, 2015 and does not involve any other John Deere manufacturing facilities.

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