The Purposeful Demise of Hostess

At The Brenner Brief, we have covered the Hostess Brands liquidation, and heard first hand from Hostess’ Director of Communications earlier in the week. We knew the strike would bring down Hostess, so didn’t the union? Remember, the Teamsters settled with Hostess. The union that is at fault is the BCGTM.

On Friday, Frank Hurt of the BCTGM union released a statement explaining that his union knew fully of the impact its strike would have on Hostess Brands — its possible demise as a corporation.

Our members decided they were not going to take any more abuse from a company they have given so much to for so many years. They decided that they were not going to agree to another round of outrageous wage and benefit cuts and give up their pension only to see yet another management team fail and Wall Street vulture capitalists and ‘restructuring specialists’ walk away with untold millions of dollars.

Throughout this long and difficult process, BCTGM members showed tremendous courage, solidarity and devotion to principle. They were well aware of the potential consequences of their actions but stood strong for dignity, justice and respect.

The only “courage” they showed was being willing to take down an iconic American company.

The only “solidarity” they’ll have will be in the welfare line.

The only “devotion to principle” is protesting yourself right out of a job — which many would be glad to have in this economy — and into the realm of unemployment.

If someone’s resumé said “Hostess Brands” on it, would a human resources department not inquire as to whether that person was a member if the BCTGM prior to hiring? Certainly, companies would avoid that within the bounds of the law.

Of course, Hostess had its problems. It was working through them.

However, we implore readers — do not be deceived. The unions placed the ultimate nail in Hostess’ coffin, just as Hostess was attempting to make changes necessary to its survival.

The union — the BCGTM — is the reason that Twinkies and Ding Dongs may become an item for your time capsule.

Related stories:
Union Bosses Are Ding Dongs
Why Are Unions Against Twinkies and Bread?

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