A bankruptcy judge postponed a hearing set for March 5 after Hostess Brands requested a two-week extension while it continues to negotiate with its unions.
Hostess, the maker of Twinkies, wants to scrap its collective bargaining agreements with its unions, saying the costs put American’s largest bakery at a competitive disadvantage and led it to file for Chapter 11.
At the hearing, Hostess plans to ask the bankruptcy judge to reject the company’s collective bargaining agreement so that it can eliminate Hostess’ pension obligations.
Hostess and its unions, including the Teamsters and the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco and Grain Millers Union, have scheduled talks for next week, renewing hopes that two can reach an agreement and avoid a protracted bankruptcy.
Still, a source close to the negotiations said the two remain far apart on a deal. Hostess has made it clear that it intends to do away with the pensions.
In a bankruptcy filing this week, Hostess said, “Indeed, there should be no misunderstanding that, whether or not the motion is granted, Hostess will cease participating in the [pensions].
The Teamsters, representing about half of Hostess’ 18,000 workers, also have refused to budge on the pension issue and have authorized a strike if the company prevails in court and changes the retirement plan.
A Hostess spokesman declined comment.
jkosman@nypost.com