Costco Workers Mobilize for Fair Contract Amid Record Profits
The recent practice picket lines set up by Costco workers, represented by Teamsters Local 150, Local 174, and Local 853 in California and Washington, signal a rising tension as the deadline for contract negotiations approaches. On January 31, the current Costco Teamsters National Master Agreement is set to expire, and the workers are taking a firm stance to advocate for a contract that fairly reflects the company's extraordinary profits.
Jesse Sexton, a member of Teamsters Local 150 and a Costco employee from Sacramento, shared their commitment to securing an equitable contract: "We’re out here today to send a clear message to Costco that we are ready to do whatever it takes to secure the contract we deserve. None of us wants to strike, but the company is making enormous profits, and all we're asking for is our fair share. If Costco refuses to present us with an acceptable offer, they'll be striking themselves."
These sentiments echo throughout the team of workers, with a collective readiness to strike if necessary. The Teamsters have highlighted the incredible financial outcomes experienced by Costco, with annual revenue reported at $254 billion and net profits soaring to $7.4 billion, reflecting a 135% increase since 2018. Yet, workers feel their demands for fair wages and benefits remain unmet, even as the company continues to prioritize shareholder profits over employee welfare.
Robert Campus, a fleet driver from Local 174, voiced similar frustrations regarding Costco's focus: "I've been a Costco driver for 12 years, and watched this company grow into one of the largest retailers in the world. It's time for Costco to stop prioritizing Wall Street and corporate executives over the workers who built this company. We're fully prepared to strike if offered anything less than an industry-leading, record-breaking contract."
In recent negotiations, while there has been some progress concerning seniority rights and the role of shop stewards, the conversation has fallen short in relation to economic benefits, with workers awaiting a proposal reflecting their contributions and the company’s success. Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, stated that Costco has only two weeks to bring forth a fair collective bargaining agreement before members take to the streets.
As the January 31st deadline looms, the Teamsters represent over 18,000 Costco workers nationwide. The leadership's call for a just agreement challenges Costco’s reputation as the third-largest retailer globally, reminding the company of its responsibility towards the employees who have dedicated themselves to its growth.
The upcoming negotiations set to occur on January 20 near Costco's corporate headquarters in Issaquah, Washington, will be pivotal. With tensions rising, the workers' resolve continues to strengthen, intent on holding Costco accountable for its obligations to its workforce. As the workers stand united in their cause, the message to corporate leadership rings clear: It’s time for them to share the wealth generated by their labor force.
Jesse Sexton, a member of Teamsters Local 150 and a Costco employee from Sacramento, shared their commitment to securing an equitable contract: "We’re out here today to send a clear message to Costco that we are ready to do whatever it takes to secure the contract we deserve. None of us wants to strike, but the company is making enormous profits, and all we're asking for is our fair share. If Costco refuses to present us with an acceptable offer, they'll be striking themselves."
These sentiments echo throughout the team of workers, with a collective readiness to strike if necessary. The Teamsters have highlighted the incredible financial outcomes experienced by Costco, with annual revenue reported at $254 billion and net profits soaring to $7.4 billion, reflecting a 135% increase since 2018. Yet, workers feel their demands for fair wages and benefits remain unmet, even as the company continues to prioritize shareholder profits over employee welfare.
Robert Campus, a fleet driver from Local 174, voiced similar frustrations regarding Costco's focus: "I've been a Costco driver for 12 years, and watched this company grow into one of the largest retailers in the world. It's time for Costco to stop prioritizing Wall Street and corporate executives over the workers who built this company. We're fully prepared to strike if offered anything less than an industry-leading, record-breaking contract."
In recent negotiations, while there has been some progress concerning seniority rights and the role of shop stewards, the conversation has fallen short in relation to economic benefits, with workers awaiting a proposal reflecting their contributions and the company’s success. Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, stated that Costco has only two weeks to bring forth a fair collective bargaining agreement before members take to the streets.
As the January 31st deadline looms, the Teamsters represent over 18,000 Costco workers nationwide. The leadership's call for a just agreement challenges Costco’s reputation as the third-largest retailer globally, reminding the company of its responsibility towards the employees who have dedicated themselves to its growth.
The upcoming negotiations set to occur on January 20 near Costco's corporate headquarters in Issaquah, Washington, will be pivotal. With tensions rising, the workers' resolve continues to strengthen, intent on holding Costco accountable for its obligations to its workforce. As the workers stand united in their cause, the message to corporate leadership rings clear: It’s time for them to share the wealth generated by their labor force.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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