DES MOINES, Iowa-The two sides involved in the longest strike in tire industry history had conflicting reports Aug. 2 regarding the dispute's potential end.
Titan International Inc. announced that a tentative contract agreement with the United Steelworkers of America was reached on a new deal lasting more than five years. USWA Local 164 has been on strike at Titan's Des Moines farm tire plant since May 1, 1998.
In a statement, Maurice Taylor Jr., Titan preident and CEO, said he remained cautiously optimistic regarding an agreement.
``It is in everyone's best interest to conclude this matter,'' according to Taylor.
The USWA, however, said through a spokesman that the Titan information as of Aug. 2 at 2:30 p.m. EDT was ``premature and incorrect.'' The spokesman said talks between the two sides are ongoing and serious, but there are still ``major issues outstanding.''
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