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Union Workers OK Kellogg’s Layoff Plan: The Battle Creek, Mich.-based company’s plan to eliminate more than 1,200 jobs by offering enhanced retirement benefits or cash buyouts was easily approved by unionized hourly workers, officials said. Workers in five states were eligible to vote, and 88% accepted the deal negotiated by Kellogg Co. and the American Federation of Grain Millers, Larry Jackson, the union’s president, said in Minneapolis. The maker of such cereals as Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and Rice Krispies says it needs to cut costs. The agreement allows some workers to retire early. Employees already eligible for retirement could choose a $42,000 payment or $750 a month until they qualify for Social Security. Workers who do not fall into either retirement category could resign and take $42,000.