Sibanye-Stillwater produces platinum-group metals and gold through primary mining, PGM recycling, and tailings retreatment operations across five continents.
The United Steelworkers says about 420 members of Local 11-0001 at Sibanye Stillwater’s Nye Mine and Columbus Metallurgical Complex will begin an unfair labor practice strike. The announcement follows months of negotiations and the workers’ rejection of three contract proposals from the company.
Sibanye-Stillwater officials welcome rising precious-metal prices, with palladium recently reaching $1,905 per ounce. Nearly 15 months after laying off 640 workers, the company says the path back to full operations remains complex.
Communities across south central Montana are bracing for the effects of mass layoffs at Sibanye-Stillwater’s mining operations. The layoffs are set to take effect in mid-November.
Sibanye-Stillwater is stopping work on an expansion project and laying off about 100 workers as palladium prices fall sharply. The company owns two precious metals mines in south-central Montana, which are the only platinum and palladium mines in the United States. Mine representatives announced the layoffs Wednesday.
