Yokohama Tire Corp.’s Salem, Va., plant operations signed a four-year contract with United Steelworkers Local 1023, according to Tetsuro Murakami, president of Yokohama Tire Manufacturing Virginia.

“Both parties worked diligently to achieve a contract that is fair and equitable for all involved,” Murakami said, “and it highlights the positive working relationship between the two sides.”

Yokohama noted that the contract includes a non-closure agreement of the plant during the life of the agreement, the continuation and improvement of the union’s current pension plan, and numerous safety and health measures.

“This is another significant contract which is expected to prove beneficial to all parties,” Murakami said. “Negotiations went smoothly, both sides were professional and cordial throughout the negotiations and we feel good about the result.”

The plan employs approximately 750 union workers.