TOLEDO, Ohio – August 9, 2025 – Workers at Libbey Glass in Toledo, Ohio, have voted to strike, setting a work stoppage to begin at 11:59 p.m. ET on Friday,August 22nd. The decision comes after a resounding rejection of the company’s latest contract proposal by approximately 84 members of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 1297, representing District 54.
The union members’ primary concerns center around wages they deem insufficient, mandatory overtime policies impacting work-life balance, and escalating health insurance expenses. Negotiations between Libbey Glass and IAM Local 1297 began on July 15th, 2025, following the expiration of the previous contract on August 1st, 2025.
IAM District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T.Dean Wright, Jr. emphasized the historical context, stating, “Libbey Glass management appears to have overlooked the considerable concessions made by our members during the company’s 2019 bankruptcy and subsequent restructuring. These workers played a vital role in stabilizing the company, and deserve fair treatment.”
IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan affirmed the union’s full support, declaring, “The IAM Union is united with our Local 1297 members at Libbey Glass.We are prepared to dedicate all available resources to secure a contract that reflects the sacrifices our members have made for this company’s success.”
Libbey Glass, headquartered in Perrysburg, Ohio, is a leading manufacturer of glass tableware, employing approximately 600 workers across its Toledo facilities. The company’s products are sold globally through retail channels and foodservice distributors.
The IAM Union, founded in 1888, represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members throughout North America. Its diverse membership spans critical industries including aerospace, defense, airlines, railroads, healthcare, and automotive. The union advocates for improved wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members.
