National Mediation Board Declines to Release Union from Negotiations with UPS

Washington, June 01, 2010

The National Mediation Board has denied a request to be released from contract negotiations filed by the Teamsters local that represents airline mechanics at UPS (NYSE:UPS).

The request to the Board was made last week by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters on behalf of Local 2727, which represents UPS's airline mechanics. The NMB denied the request in a notice sent to UPS and the union today.

The NMB's notice states simply that the record of the negotiations to date demonstrates a release is not in order at this time. The decision means that UPS and Local 2727 remain in recess, subject to the mediator's call back to the negotiating table.

"UPS is pleased that the NMB has denied the Teamsters' request for a release from mediation because we believe the company and union can reach an agreement through on-going negotiations," the company said in a statement.

"It is important to remember that our mechanics already have the best jobs in their industry and we are offering to enhance their position. We are ready to finalize a contract that rewards our employees while allowing us to remain competitive. We look forward to returning to the table."