#United States #Teamsters #Livermore #US Foods

Drivers at US Foods Vote for Strike Authorization

In a significant move, more than 170 drivers at US Foods in Livermore, California, have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike through Teamsters Local 853. This decision comes as workers push for fair wages, quality healthcare, and essential job protections given the management's persistent delays in contract negotiations.

Armed with a clear message, Arcadio Alaniz, a driver at US Foods and a member of Local 853, expressed the sentiment that resonates among his peers: "We are fighting for fair wages, quality health care, and a strong first union contract that provides the protections and job security we deserve."

The crux of the issue lies in the company's failure to engage in genuine negotiations. Despite joining the Teamsters last year with hope for positive change, US Foods has been criticized for its reluctance to advance the bargaining process meaningfully. The strike authorization vote highlights the frustration of workers who feel undervalued and ignored in a continued cycle of surface bargaining tactics by the management.

As emphasized by Ray Torres, Vice President of Local 853, that commitment to reach a fair agreement remains, yet the indications from US Foods reflect a lack of good faith. He stated, "If the company continues to disregard our members at the bargaining table, we'll have no choice but to strike."

The Teamsters organization represents a substantial workforce across the nation, with over 5,500 US Foods employees under its purview. Notably, a year prior, similar circumstances led to a notable labor dispute involving Teamsters Local 705 in Chicago, culminating in a three-week strike that sparked picket lines nationally. This action resulted in a landmark contract that introduced significant improvements in wages, healthcare coverage, pensions, and other essential benefits.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, cautioned US Foods, urging them to learn from past experiences. He stated, "US Foods needs to learn from the past. We will hold this company accountable. If they refuse to negotiate seriously with Local 853, they'll face the consequences." The driving force behind the movement is a resolve to secure the strong initial contract the drivers rightfully deserve.

Founded over a century ago in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters remains a formidable force, representing approximately 1.3 million working individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The current situation serves as a testament to the ongoing struggle for labor rights and equitable treatment in the workforce.

For more detailed insights and updates, you can explore their official website at Teamster.org and follow them on social media channels such as X and Facebook.

In summary, the impending potential for a strike at US Foods in Livermore underscores the critical need for meaningful dialogue and negotiation in labor relations. The resolve of the drivers to stand up for fair treatment reflects broader themes of workers' rights, collective bargaining, and the importance of union support in securing fair treatment within the workforce.