#United States #Teamsters #UNFI #Richburg #Local 509

Over 50 Drivers at UNFI Vote to Join Teamsters Local 509

In a significant move toward strengthening labor rights, more than 50 drivers at United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) in Richburg, South Carolina, have voted decisively to unite under Teamsters Local 509. This decision comes as part of a growing nationwide trend where workers are actively seeking better wages, enhanced benefits, and improved working conditions through organized labor.

This collective effort marks a crucial step for the drivers, who are now gearing up for their inaugural contract negotiations. Brian Rackley, a driver at UNFI and now a proud member of Local 509, expressed the sentiment of many by stating, "When the workplace turns toxic, you have to set boundaries and lines need to be drawn that management can't cross. A Teamsters contract allows us to draw that line." His words highlight the confidence the drivers have in the union's ability to advocate for their rights and secure fair compensation.

The success in South Carolina is part of a broader wave of victories for the Teamsters across the nation. Since 2022, over 3,000 UNFI workers have joined the Teamsters, contributing to a total membership of more than 5,000 workers. The growing strength of the Teamsters has resulted in successful bargaining efforts in various states, paving the way for significant improvements in pay and working conditions.

Local 509's President, Brian Clardy, remarked, "It's an honor to welcome these drivers into Local 509. Now we will get to work at the bargaining table to negotiate a strong first Teamsters contract that aligns their wages, benefits, and working conditions with what other Teamsters at UNFI have already achieved." This commitment from Local 509 aims to ensure that the new members receive the support and resources necessary to secure fair treatment in the workplace.

In recent months, the trend of workers joining the Teamsters has been seen in other states. In May, nearly 100 drivers in Texas aligned with Teamsters Local 745, while drivers in Wisconsin voted overwhelmingly in favor of joining Teamsters Local 200. These efforts showcase a united front among workers as they advocate for their rights and seek to improve their livelihoods.

The Teamsters have recently ratified strong contracts for more than 1,000 UNFI members in Florida, Georgia, and Illinois, marking historic gains such as $8 hourly raises, comprehensive health care coverage through the Teamsters, defined benefit pension plans, robust seniority provisions, and additional paid time off. These victories provide a blueprint for the newly organized workers in South Carolina as they prepare to embark on their own negotiations.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, emphasized the continued momentum of this movement, stating, "In every corner of the country, UNFI workers are standing together with the Teamsters because they've seen what we've accomplished at the bargaining table. This momentum will continue. We will keep building power and density at UNFI until every worker has the union contract that they deserve."

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents 1.3 million dedicated workers across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The collective power of the union has proven to be a vital source of support for workers in their quest for better working conditions. For more information about the Teamsters and ongoing efforts, visit Teamster.org or follow them on social media platforms like X and Facebook.

As this labor movement gains traction, the stories of these newly organized workers amplify the need for solidarity in the pursuit of fair treatment and a dignified working environment. The decisions made by drivers in South Carolina not only affect their futures but also serve to inspire workers everywhere to consider their own roles in advocating for their rights in the workplace.