#United States #Teamsters #Ventura #Frito-Lay #Local 186

Frito-Lay Teamsters Celebrate a Landmark Victory

In a momentous achievement for labor rights at one of the nation’s largest snack brands, members of Teamsters Local 186 have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement with Frito-Lay, marking the first such contract in 35 years. The agreement, finalized on May 7, 2025, brings significant changes for the 75 employees including route service sales representatives, merchandisers, and warehouse staff.

Abel Garcia, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 186, expressed immense pride in the workforce's determination amidst a challenging environment. “These brave men and women fought hard all the way to the finish line, despite facing anti-union management,” he stated. Garcia highlighted the historic importance of this contract not just for the newly organized Frito-Lay members but for the entire Teamsters Union, emphasizing how this set a precedent for future labor movements.

The new contract provides numerous improvements for the workers, including enhanced performance pay, guaranteed annual wage increases, seniority rights, and protections against unjust disciplinary actions or terminations. The agreement is seen by many as a crucial step toward greater respect and dignity in the workplace, reflecting the collective power of all involved.

Marco Torres, a respected shop steward and member of the bargaining committee, shared his excitement regarding the new contract. “We joined the Teamsters to win the respect we deserve in the workplace,” he professed. Torres acknowledged the integral role of the workers in ensuring the company's success, underlining that the new agreement validates their contributions. “It’s clear that this company can't succeed without us,” he affirmed.

The Teamsters Local 186 represents workers across various industries in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties of California. This victory is a stepping stone for many additional successes as the union works to amplify its presence and support for labor rights across the region.

In his closing remarks, Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference, expressed optimism about the future. “This landmark contract is emblematic of the work the Teamsters are doing to build power and density in our core industries,” he remarked. Padellaro’s words resonate with the broader mission of the Teamsters Union to expand its influence and advocate for workers’ rights.

This contract victory signifies a powerful moment in labor history, not only for the workers at Frito-Lay but for the labor movement as a whole. As collective bargaining agreements continue to roll out, the focus now shifts to building on this momentum to secure further advancements in workers' rights and protections in various sectors. For more details on the Teamsters’ initiatives, visit teamsterslocal186.org.