CAMPBELL SOUP IN HOT WATER WITH ORGANIZED LABOR

Much of the positive public image of Campbell Soup Co. (Camden, New Jersey) is based on myths. For instance, Campbell takes pride in its concern for the environment, but in the last few years, the company has been found to be violating a number of environmental laws. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has investigated Campbell for possible monopolization of the soup market and for allegedly illegal pricing practices. Campbell's contracts with vegetable farmers specify the price per ton to be paid to the grower. This establishes the limits on wages that the farmer can pay to farmworkers, along with the funds available to provide fringe benefits or improve housing for migrants. Since 1978, members of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC), have been on strike against farmers who contract with Campbell and have been organizing a consumer boycott of Campbell Soup products. They are trying to establish a 3-way bargaining process involving Campbell, growers, and farmworkers. Among their demands are a minimum wage and health insurance. Campbell is countering the boycott publicity with a public relations campaign which claims noninvolvement with farmworkers who harvest the crops.