Over 500 Sysco Employees in Chicago and Montana Vote to Strike for Fair Wages
On February 12, 2026, a significant step was taken by over 500 Sysco drivers and warehouse workers in both Chicago and Montana, as they overwhelmingly voted by a remarkable 99.5 percent in favor of authorizing a strike. This decisive move marks a critical moment in their ongoing battle for respect, fair wages, and improved working conditions that align with the standards already established by many Teamsters nationwide.
The Teamsters, a major labor union representing more than 1.3 million working individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, are advocating for these workers. According to Alen Hukic, a dedicated driver at Sysco and a proud member of Teamsters Local 710 in Chicago, the voices of the workers must be heard. He stated, "Every day, drivers like us are the reason Sysco is able to deliver for its customers. Management needs to take our demands seriously and provide a contract that allows us to take care of ourselves and our families."
Sysco is among the largest food service companies in the United States, showcasing an impressive net profit of $1.8 billion in 2025 alone. The workers feel justified in their demands, especially considering their vital role in the company’s success. Sean Krebs, a warehouse worker and member of Teamsters Local 190 in Montana, emphasized the urgency of their demands, saying, "We're asking for a fair and reasonable contract that reflects the massive profits this company generates every year because of our labor. None of us want to be on the strike line, but if Sysco fails to offer a fair agreement, we will have no choice but to withhold our labor."
The Teamsters currently represent approximately 13,000 Sysco workers across the country. Over the last year, there have been several successful contract agreements, notably including a historic regional contract resolved in December last year. Just recently, Teamsters in Spokane, Washington ratified a lucrative new agreement that resulted in a remarkable 34 percent wage increase, along with reduced healthcare costs and increased pension contributions.
Tom Erickson, the Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, has made it clear that a strong agreement needs to be placed on the negotiating table. He noted, "Teamsters at Sysco are the reason this company records such large profit margins. It's time for Sysco to come to terms on a fair contract — or deal with the consequences."
The sentiment among the workers is growing, and their determination is evident. The union's recent strides toward securing better contracts only embolden their quest for improved wages and conditions. As the situation unfolds, it’s clear that these workers are prepared to stand firm in their decision to strike if necessary, advocating for their rights and the future of their livelihoods.
As this story develops, the Teamsters union calls for public support as they stand united for change in the workplace. Support from the community and allies can amplify their message, urging Sysco to recognize their pivotal role in the success of the organization. The stakes are high, and the workers' solidarity is stronger than ever, demonstrating the power of collective advocacy in pursuit of fair labor practices.
The Teamsters, a major labor union representing more than 1.3 million working individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, are advocating for these workers. According to Alen Hukic, a dedicated driver at Sysco and a proud member of Teamsters Local 710 in Chicago, the voices of the workers must be heard. He stated, "Every day, drivers like us are the reason Sysco is able to deliver for its customers. Management needs to take our demands seriously and provide a contract that allows us to take care of ourselves and our families."
Sysco is among the largest food service companies in the United States, showcasing an impressive net profit of $1.8 billion in 2025 alone. The workers feel justified in their demands, especially considering their vital role in the company’s success. Sean Krebs, a warehouse worker and member of Teamsters Local 190 in Montana, emphasized the urgency of their demands, saying, "We're asking for a fair and reasonable contract that reflects the massive profits this company generates every year because of our labor. None of us want to be on the strike line, but if Sysco fails to offer a fair agreement, we will have no choice but to withhold our labor."
The Teamsters currently represent approximately 13,000 Sysco workers across the country. Over the last year, there have been several successful contract agreements, notably including a historic regional contract resolved in December last year. Just recently, Teamsters in Spokane, Washington ratified a lucrative new agreement that resulted in a remarkable 34 percent wage increase, along with reduced healthcare costs and increased pension contributions.
Tom Erickson, the Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, has made it clear that a strong agreement needs to be placed on the negotiating table. He noted, "Teamsters at Sysco are the reason this company records such large profit margins. It's time for Sysco to come to terms on a fair contract — or deal with the consequences."
The sentiment among the workers is growing, and their determination is evident. The union's recent strides toward securing better contracts only embolden their quest for improved wages and conditions. As the situation unfolds, it’s clear that these workers are prepared to stand firm in their decision to strike if necessary, advocating for their rights and the future of their livelihoods.
As this story develops, the Teamsters union calls for public support as they stand united for change in the workplace. Support from the community and allies can amplify their message, urging Sysco to recognize their pivotal role in the success of the organization. The stakes are high, and the workers' solidarity is stronger than ever, demonstrating the power of collective advocacy in pursuit of fair labor practices.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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