Teamsters Celebrate Ratification of Southern California Bakery Agreement with Major Wins
The Teamsters have achieved a significant milestone with the ratification of the Southern California Master Bakery Agreement, a collective bargaining contract that affects over 1,000 employees at Bimbo Bakeries, including merchandisers and route sales representatives. This agreement underscores the union's commitment to advocating for its members and improving industry standards.
Jeff Padellaro, the Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference, expressed pride in the collective efforts of the union’s committee throughout the negotiation process. He remarked, "Our committee was focused, diligent, and united throughout the entire process. This agreement raises standards for every worker in the industry. It embodies what Teamsters do best — we mobilize, we fight, and we take on employers to win the contracts we deserve."
The newly ratified five-year contract promises substantial wage increases for both base salaries and commissions, enhanced pension benefits, and more affordable healthcare options for workers. Just 48 hours before a potential strike, the employer presented a revised offer, ultimately resulting in a productive outcome for the union’s members.
Jaiver Franco, a steward with Teamsters Local 166, emphasized the efficacy of the strike threat: "The threat of a strike was effective, and we ended up winning an amazing contract. As Teamsters, we look out for one another and fight for the best pay and benefits."
This successful contract negotiation is not an isolated event. It marks the third substantial victory for the Teamsters at Bimbo Bakeries within the last year, following previous agreements secured in Washington State and Northern California. These achievements illustrate the union's unwavering dedication to advancing the rights and conditions of workers in the bakery sector.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters now represents over 1.3 million hardworking individuals across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, focusing on improving the livelihoods of its members through strategic negotiations and collective action. As part of its ongoing mission, the union continues to advocate for workers’ rights and drive positive change within various industries.
For further information on the Teamsters and their ongoing efforts, individuals can visit Teamster.org or follow the union on social media platforms like X and Facebook.
Overall, this newly ratified agreement is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and reinforces the Teamsters' role as a vital force in advocating for workers across the nation. It showcases how unity and determination can lead to favorable outcomes, thereby uplifting not just individual members, but setting a precedent for all workers in the industry.