IAM Union Members at IKEA Perryville Continue Strike as Federal Mediation Fails to Yield Progress

Approximately 320 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local I460, District 4, working at the IKEA Distribution Center in Perryville, Maryland, remain on strike for a fair contract after overwhelmingly rejecting the company's latest proposal on Nov. 14, 2024.

Despite engaging in federal mediation sessions on Nov. 21 and 22, 2024, no progress was made toward resolving the dispute.

"We are disappointed in IKEA's unwillingness to move on issues critical to our members," said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. "This strike is about respect and dignity on the job. Our members remain in solidarity in their fight for fair wages and seniority protections, and we won't back down until IKEA comes back to us with real solutions. Our members are prepared to stand strong for as long as it takes to win the fair treatment they deserve."

WATCH: Video from More Perfect Union on the IKEA StrikeMore Perfect Union

IAM Local I460 members began their strike at midnight on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, following a vote to reject IKEA's proposed contract. The members continue to demand fair wages and seniority protections, which they argue are essential to ensuring a just and respectful workplace.

IAM Local I460 members remain on the picket line outside the IKEA Distribution Center in Perryville.

WATCH: IAM I460 Local President Mark Bittner Discuss Seniority

Critical issues in the dispute include:

• Wages: IAM Local I460 members seek wages that keep pace with the cost of living and reflect their contributions to IKEA's success.
• Seniority: IAM Local I460 members want to protect seniority rights to ensure fair treatment and prevent favoritism.