Ocean Spray Says It's Using Union Workers

responded to an stating that the Bordentown, N.J., company was not using union workers to

, vice pesident of manufacturing operations for Ocean Spray, said the company is using both union and non-union workers for construction.

"In extending contracts surrounding the construction of Ocean Spray’s Lehigh Valley Beverage Facility, Ocean Spray is selecting bids at the lowest cost and highest quality – union or non-union -- that meets its construction requirements. Ocean Spray is accepting bids from both union and non-union firms. Together with Gilbane, Ocean Spray’s site developer, we aspire to partner with the most qualified professionals at the lowest cost to complete the project," Fritz said.

"The Lehigh Valley Beverage Facility will provide the local community with 165 good-paying, high-skilled jobs in a clean industry, and Ocean Spray will offer employees extensive, ongoing training for their career development," he added.

"At Ocean Spray, we have strong values and are committed to managing our business in a way that respects our communities, employees and the environment," Fritz said.

Jim Reilly, president of Local 542, remained unavailable for comment.