UNFI Drivers in Wisconsin Achieve Union Victory with Teamsters Local 200

UNFI Drivers in Wisconsin Achieve Union Victory with Teamsters Local 200



In a landmark decision, 77 drivers at United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) in Sturtevant, Wisconsin, voted decisively to join the Teamsters Local 200 union. The vote, which resulted in a 2-to-1 majority, represents a monumental step for the drivers, as they seek to secure better pay, enhanced benefits, and improved working conditions that they rightfully deserve.

Jeff Bandur, President of Local 200, expressed pride in the workers' determination, emphasizing their commitment to fight for a first contract that aligns with the standards set by other UNFI Teamsters across the nation. "These workers organized with purpose and determination, and we are proud to welcome them into our local union," he said.

This recent win in Wisconsin is part of a growing trend of successful union campaigns at UNFI, which supplies products to Whole Foods and serves as the largest distributor for the chain. Since 2022, over 3,000 workers nationwide have organized with the Teamsters, marking a significant increase in collective bargaining power among UNFI employees.

One of the new members, Omar Correa, highlighted the motivation behind their unionization efforts, stating, "We joined the Teamsters because we want what's fair — better pay, better benefits, and a voice on the job." Correa acknowledged the successes of Teamsters at other UNFI locations, showcasing a collective determination to achieve similar outcomes in Wisconsin.

Following this recent organizing victory, Local 200 workers are eager to engage in negotiations for their first contract, aiming to secure improvements that reflect their hard work and dedication. The union's Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, Tom Erickson, emphasized the importance of this movement, stating, "The Teamsters are raising expectations for every UNFI worker in the country. We’re organizing, we're growing, and we're not backing down. Our expanding strength is setting the standard at the company, and we won't stop until every UNFI worker is protected by a strong Teamsters contract."

The organizing efforts in Wisconsin come on the heels of other successful agreements ratified by newly organized UNFI workers in Florida, Georgia, and Illinois. Those contracts have reportedly included significant improvements, such as an $8 hourly raise, comprehensive health care coverage, a defined-benefit pension plan, strong seniority rights, and increased paid time off.

Since its inception in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has grown to represent approximately 1.3 million hardworking individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. This rich history of labor activism continues to inspire new generations of workers, as seen in the ongoing organization of drivers and warehouse workers within the UNFI network.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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