#United States #Teamsters Local 856 #TomaTek #wage increases #Firebaugh

Teamsters Local 856 Secures First Contract for TomaTek Employees

In a landmark decision, members of Teamsters Local 856 at TomaTek have overwhelmingly voted to ratify their first union contract, achieving a historic 91 percent approval. This agreement marks a major milestone for workers at TomaTek, who process and package tomato-based products in California's Central Valley. The contract is a four-year agreement that includes average wage increases of 20 percent in the first year and annual increases thereafter, setting a precedent for worker rights in the industry.

Elisabeth Zamora, a member of the negotiating committee and a dedicated employee of TomaTek for 30 years, expressed her gratitude for the long-awaited raise. "I've been working at this company for 30 years and have been waiting all these years for a raise. Thank God we’ve achieved it," she stated proudly. The newly ratified deal not only empowers workers with significant pay increases but also extends benefits to seasonal employees, including eligibility for holiday pay.

As part of the comprehensive agreement, the union has negotiated increased tool allowances for maintenance staff, improved shift differentials, and the introduction of a training program aimed at creating promotional opportunities for machine operators. Mark Barcellos, another member of the negotiating committee, reflected on the positive changes the contract brings. "It was an honor to be part of a committee that presented a contract respecting the union members— I could not be prouder," he remarked.

The negotiations, led by Veronica Diaz, Director of the Local 856 Central Coast Division, emphasized the importance of representation for all classifications of workers. Diaz noted, "The negotiations committee worked tirelessly to ensure all classifications, from mechanics to general labor, were equally represented at the table". She highlighted that the contract’s wage increases and provisions lay the groundwork for sustainable careers filled with dignity for TomaTek workers.

The TomaTek facility employs around 1,100 Teamsters members who have been part of a collective effort to secure their rights since electing to join the union last July. The victory exemplifies the union's commitment to supporting workers through robust negotiations. Peter Finn, the Local 856 Secretary-Treasurer and Principal Officer, underscored the determination of the union, saying, "We know that an organizing campaign isn't over until we negotiate a strong contract. We will fight for that as long as it takes."

The positive outcome of these negotiations signals a new era of worker empowerment in the food processing industry. Teamsters Local 856, which has been a pillar of labor rights since its founding in 1949, continues to advocate for workers’ rights and benefits. With over 20,000 members, it is one of California's largest Teamsters locals, affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which boasts a membership of 1.3 million nationally. The successful ratification of this contract at TomaTek serves as a beacon for similar unions and workplaces striving for fair compensation and better working conditions.

As TomaTek employees celebrate their hard-won gains, they look forward to a future where their contributions are recognized and valued. With this new contract in hand, Teamsters Local 856 is committed to aggressively enforcing the terms and expanding on this success for years to come.