#United States #Teamsters #Glasgow #SRM Concrete

SRM Concrete Drivers Unite with Teamsters Local 89

In a significant move towards employee rights and workplace dignity, concrete ready mix drivers at SRM Concrete in Glasgow, Kentucky, recently voted decisively to join Teamsters Local 89. This decision was largely driven by longstanding concerns regarding inadequate treatment from management, specifically regarding respect, pay progression, and job security.

The vote, taken on January 5, 2026, showcased the resolve of the workers who felt compelled to take action after years of being overlooked by management. Avral Thompson, President of Local 89 and Teamsters Central Region International Vice President, highlighted the courage of the drivers during this tumultuous period. "SRM Concrete may rank among the leading ready mix producers nationally, yet their management’s evident greed led them to employ union-busting tactics," noted Thompson. He expressed pride in welcoming these new members into the union's fold.

The journey toward this successful vote has been anything but easy. Since organizing commenced in September, these drivers faced a barrage of illegal anti-union strategies from SRM management. Reports emerged of reduced working hours for those who expressed interest in unionizing, while threats were made to withhold financial bonuses from those who chose to join the Teamsters. Such tactics prompted Teamsters Local 89 to file numerous unfair labor practice charges against SRM with the National Labor Relations Board, citing coercive actions and an outright refusal to recognize the union.

Wes Odle, an organizer for Local 89, commended the SRM Glasgow drivers for their unwavering commitment amidst the management’s coercive campaign. "Despite the serious challenges, these workers stood their ground, refusing to abandon their pursuit of unions rights and a fair workplace. We are poised to continue filing charges against SRM until they cease their harassment and acknowledge our union," stated Odle.

The weight of the profession was not lost on the drivers themselves. Casey Spears, a ready mix driver at SRM Glasgow, articulated the risks associated with the job and the necessity of respect from management. "Operating as a ready mix driver involves significant hazards. We put our safety on the line daily, which should warrant respect and acknowledgment from the company. Now that we are Teamsters, we possess the support required to directly engage management in negotiations for our first union contract," Spears remarked.

The Teamsters Local 89, representing over 20,000 workers across various sectors in Kentucky and Southern Indiana, has a storied history of advocating for worker rights in industries including trucking, shipping and logistics, warehousing, gaming, and grocery. The growth of their family with the addition of SRM Concrete drivers signifies a momentous shift towards improved conditions and benefits for all employees involved.

For those interested in following the developments of Teamsters Local 89 and the continued fight for fair labor practices, further information can be found at teamsters89.com. The union stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity for workers striving for fair treatment in their workplaces.

As the battle for workers' rights persists, it's imperative to recognize these grassroots efforts that challenge corporate giants in pursuit of justice and respect in the workplace. The victories achieved by local unions like Teamsters Local 89 serve as a testament to the power of solidarity and collective bargaining in addressing the needs of workers across the nation.