Micky D Gives Migrants a Raise

Penny-a-pound increase for tomato pickers sets industry standard
By Heather McPherson,  Newser User
Posted Apr 10, 2007 10:50 AM CDT
Micky D Gives Migrants a Raise
Field hands will receive an extra penny per pound of tomatoes they pick   (KRT Photos)

The cent-a-pound increase McDonald's agreed to grant their tomato-picking field hands yesterday may sound like, well, pennies, but it represents a more than 70% raise, the Chicago Tribune reports. And the deal was hailed as paving the way for negotiations between migrant workers and other corporate Goliaths across the country.

Former president Jimmy Carter brokered the agreement, which also includes standards for working conditions. McDonald's has faced increasing criticism for its treatment of farm laborers; Yum Brands,  the parent corporation of Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, gave its field hands a similar raise two years ago. McDonald's uses tomatoes only in salads and some sandwiches. (More social responsibility stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X