#USA #Teamsters Local 639 #Warehouse Workers #Genesis Logistics #Stafford

Genesis Logistics Warehouse Workers Unite

In a landmark decision, more than 300 warehouse workers at Genesis Logistics, a subsidiary of DHL, have chosen to unionize with Teamsters Local 639. This overwhelming vote showcases the desire of these workers for better representation as they prepare to embark on negotiations for their first contract. The unionization comes after a similar effort by drivers at the same facility, who voted to join the Teamsters with a strong 90% majority earlier this year.

Bill Davis, the President of Local 639, expressed pride in representing this determined group, emphasizing their commitment to standing alongside the workers. He stated, “Genesis warehouse workers made it clear from the start they wanted Teamsters representation. We are proud to represent this determined group and ready to fight with them every step of the way for the strong first contract they deserve.”

The successful voting process was facilitated by a card-check agreement, which allowed management to voluntarily recognize the union after an independent arbitrator confirmed that a majority of workers had signed authorization cards—thus eliminating the need for a potentially contentious National Labor Relations Board election.

Amanda Brooks Pallant, a warehouse employee and now member of the union, voiced her enthusiasm about joining the Teamsters, declaring, “Becoming Teamsters was a no-brainer for us. Now we're standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the drivers to fight for a first contract that delivers better wages, benefits, and working conditions.” This sentiment reflects a broader movement among workers seeking equitable treatment and compensation in their respective fields.

Genesis Logistics is responsible for distributing pre-packaged food and various products for convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Their distribution center, located in Stafford, plays a vital role in supplying stores across the Mid-Atlantic region. However, since the spring, negotiations for a contract for Teamsters drivers at the facility have been stalled, with management accused of dragging out the process.

With the entire facility now unionized under Teamsters Local 639, the workers are poised to leverage their collective power to advocate for fair working conditions. Bill Hamilton, Director of the Teamsters Express Division, made a rallying call for negotiations, stating: “Now that this entire facility is represented by the Teamsters, it's time for Genesis Logistics to come to the table and negotiate a fair agreement. The Teamsters are prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure these workers win the contract they deserve.”

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents approximately 1.3 million members across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. This organization has a long history of advocating for the rights and welfare of workers in diverse sectors, and it hopes to bring long-overdue changes to the Genesis Logistics workforce through this recent unionization effort.

As these workers move forward, the collective enthusiasm and solidarity illustrate a growing trend towards union membership and labor rights advancements across various industries. The upcoming negotiations will undoubtedly be critical as Local 639 fights for achievable improvements and sets a precedent for future labor movements in the logistics sector. For more information about the Teamsters and their ongoing efforts, visit Teamster.org. Follow them for updates on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.