News

Union Workers Approve New Contract at Wood River Refinery

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Andrew R. Michaud

• September 14, 2023

Workers at Phillips 66 Co.'s Wood River refinery in Illinois have voted to approve a new contract, effectively avoiding a potential strike. The refinery, jointly owned by Phillips 66 and Cenovus Energy Inc., is operated by Phillips.

Agreement Reached after Mediation Talks

Following a rejection of the contract proposal in July, the majority of the refinery's 370 union laborers have now voted in favor of accepting the renewed agreement. In an effort to resolve the dispute, federally mediated talks were initiated between the union and Phillips.

Key Player in Midwest's Fuel Production

With a capacity of 173,000 barrels per day, the Wood River refinery is a major gasoline and diesel producer in the Midwest region. This facility plays a crucial role in meeting the high demand for fuel in the area.

Industrial Unrest Threatens Refinery Operations

Labor disputes in U.S. refineries pose significant challenges to uninterrupted production. While strikes loomed over other refineries across the nation, management has the ability to step in and ensure operations continue even amidst worker walk-offs.