Teamsters Local 313 Drivers Continue Strike Against Glacier Northwest for Fair Wages

The Teamsters Local 313 union, representing ready-mix drivers at Glacier Northwest, a subsidiary of CalPortland, has reached the one-month milestone in its strike. This action, which began on April 1, 2026, is a response to the company’s refusal to negotiate a fair contract amidst accusations of unfair labor practices. The striking drivers, operating out of DuPont, Washington, are advocating for wage and benefit parity with their CalPortland counterparts in King County, who perform similar roles.

Issues at Stake

The drivers have expressed frustration over what they see as a failure on the part of Glacier Northwest to recognize their contributions and the importance of their roles within the company. Nick Lansdale, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 313, emphasized that the drivers are performing the same duties as other employees yet are not being compensated fairly. “Rather than bargaining in good faith, CalPortland's proposals would deepen inequality and undermine the livelihoods of hardworking Teamsters in Pierce County,” Lansdale stated.

The union has also criticized the company's approach during the strike, which has included efforts to hire replacement workers—a move seen as an attempt to undermine the striking employees' bargaining power. John Silver, a driver with seven years of service at Glacier Northwest, contested this strategy, asserting that the decision to strike was a necessary step to advocate for their rights. “All we are asking for is to be treated with the same respect and fairness that CalPortland treats drivers who live an hour away from us. We are ready to stay here as long as it takes to get a fair contract,” he stated.

Continuing the Fight

The union has pledged to maintain its presence on the picket line until Glacier Northwest management demonstrates a commitment to serious negotiations. The drivers believe their strike is essential not only for their own working conditions but also for setting a precedent that values the labor of all workers within the industry. The ongoing situation highlights broader issues surrounding labor rights and workplace equality as workers increasingly push back against unacceptable terms of employment.

As negotiations remain stalled, Teamsters Local 313 reminds those involved of the essential role these drivers play in operations at Glacier Northwest, asserting their readiness to fight until a fair agreement is reached. The union, which boasts over 120 years of representation across various industries in the Pacific Northwest, stands firm in its commitment to its members.

For further updates and information about the ongoing strike, visit the Teamsters Local 313 website at teamsters313.org. In an era where labor movements are crucial for achieving equitable workplace standards, the actions of the Glacier Northwest drivers serve as a poignant reminder of the necessity for solidarity and strength in numbers among workers.