Following a strike, Coca-Cola employees are heading back to work.

The return comes just in time to replenish the supply of Coca-Cola beverages on the shelves and in the coolers of Bonney Lake and Sumner stores.

“That area is served by our south sound distribution center in Tacoma,” Bob Phillips, spokesman for the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. in Washington said.

Workers began the strike Aug. 23 and are between contracts with the company.

“Yesterday, the union made an unconditional offer to return to work,” Phillips said.

Negotiations between the union and Coca-Cola are scheduled for tomorrow and Thursday.

One of the issues is the amount of money employees pay for health insurance.

Phillips said several issues are likely to be discussed, but declined to elaborate because he didn’t want to leave anything out. He is optimistic about the talks.

“We look forward to returning to the table,” he said.