ST. CLOUD, MN — About 365 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have elected to strike the Polar Tank Trailer company’s manufacturing facility in Opole, MN.

The plant produces stainless steel, aluminum, and carbon steel tank trailers for liquid bulk products.

Polar’s facilities in Holdingford, MN., and Springfield, MO., are not affected.

In response, Polar has activated contingencies to ensure the continued production of tank trailers at Opole.

The collective bargaining agreement between Polar and the union expired on Nov. 30.

According to a statement from the company, within the past year, Polar has secured new five-year labor agreements with employees at Holdingford and Springfield. The company’s wages and benefits are recognized as the premier compensation package in the industry, Polar states.

“Investing in our employees is one way we can help our customers be more competitive and efficient,” said Frank Lukacs, president of Polar Tank Trailer. “We’re committed to negotiating an agreement that will benefit our employees and help us meet the quality, cost, and delivery expectations of our customers.”

Polar Tank Trailer LLC is North America’s largest manufacturer of aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel tank trailers. It is part of the Polar Corp. family of companies, which includes Polar Service Centers and Quality Trailer Products. Polar Corp. is based in St. Cloud, MN.