#United States #Atlanta #Teamsters #UNFI

UNFI Teamsters in Atlanta Celebrate Their First Contract

In a significant achievement for labor rights, Teamsters working at United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) in Atlanta have successfully ratified their first collective bargaining agreement. This milestone was reached unanimously, and the contract is viewed as a pivotal step in enhancing the welfare of over 225 warehouse employees.

Key Features of the Contract

The five-year agreement secured by the Teamsters union includes a remarkable 30% wage increase, access to comprehensive Teamsters health care coverage, and eligibility for the Western Conference Pension Plan. Additionally, it establishes defined classification bidding and recognizes Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a paid holiday for all team members.

Matt Higdon, President of Teamsters Local 728, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome: "This is an excellent contract that will have a lasting impact on our members and their families. We mirrored the best standards already won by other UNFI Teamsters, and we are proud to have secured such a strong agreement for our newest members."

Growing Union Membership at UNFI

The UNFI facility, which is a crucial distribution center for Amazon-owned Whole Foods, has seen a surge in union organizing efforts in recent years. In just the past year, more than 1,250 drivers and warehouse employees at UNFI have voted to join the Teamsters union, contributing to a total of over 5,000 workers now represented by the union since 2022. The Atlanta warehouse workers had decided to unionize last year, and this contract marks a significant win for them.

Fernando Woods, a UNFI worker and Local 728 shop steward, shared his experience: "Since we organized in October, we have been fighting for respect and a contract that meets the industry standard. I've been with the company for 10 years, and it feels great to reap the benefits of having strong union representation. What used to be just a job has transformed into a fulfilling career."

A Nationwide Movement

The Atlanta contract builds on a wave of initial agreements for newly organized UNFI employees throughout the United States. Just a month prior, more than 300 UNFI warehouse workers in Sarasota, Florida, also ratified their first contract, which similarly included major wage increases and health care benefits. The Atlanta agreement is reflective of these broader victories, reinforcing standards across the company.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, remarked, "We're building density and using our strength at UNFI to negotiate some of the best contracts in the grocery industry. Workers across this country can see that the Teamsters are delivering real gains in wages, benefits, and protections on the job."

Teamsters' Legacy

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has been representing hardworking individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, amassing a membership of 1.3 million people. The recent contract ratification in Atlanta is not just a local victory; it signifies a broader trend toward organizing and solidarity in the workforce. As Teamsters continue to advocate for better working conditions and fair pay, this contract stands as a reminder of the power of collective action.

For more information about the Teamsters and their initiatives, visit Teamster.org and follow them on social media to stay updated on future developments.