Candy-maker and union agree on 3-year pact

The confectioner that makes Peeps and Hot Tamales candies has reached a three-year agreement with the union representing workers at its operations in Bethlehem.

Privately owned Just Born Inc. and Local 6 of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers' and Grain Millers' union would not disclose terms of the contract, which covers 337 employees. But Barry Fields, president of the local, said there were increases in wages and pension benefits.

Just Born, which is based in Bethlehem and takes its name from founder Sam Born, bought Goldenberg Candy Co. of Philadelphia in 2003. Employees there are in the same local but are covered by a separate contract.

The Philadelphia factory, which has about 40 employees, remains the only site that makes Peanut Chews.    - Roslyn Rudolph