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US Foods Workers in Indiana Vote to Authorize Strike

In a significant move, more than 200 drivers and warehouse staff at US Foods in Indiana have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, with a remarkable 98% in favor. This comes as part of the ongoing struggle for a contract that meets their demands for higher wages, improved benefits, and better working conditions in the face of advancing automation.

The workers, represented by Teamsters Local 135, have stated that they are prepared to take action if the food service behemoth does not present an acceptable proposal by the expiration of their current contract on January 30, 2026. Local 135 President Dustin Roach emphasized that their members are resolute, declaring, "Let there be no confusion — our members will not work a second past the expiration of this agreement."

The urgency of the situation is heightened as the workers serve a critical role, delivering food to local restaurants, universities like Purdue University, and hospital systems such as Hendricks Regional Health and Community Hospital Anderson. Chris Eads, a driver and member of Local 135, echoed the sentiment of the workers, stating, “None of us want to be on strike, but we deserve a contract that protects our livelihoods from automation and provides the wages and benefits our families rely on. We are fully prepared to do whatever is necessary to defend our jobs and our future.”

US Foods boasts a staggering market capitalization of over $19 billion, placing it among the largest and most profitable food service distributors in the U.S. Notably, the Teamsters represent more than 5,500 workers of US Foods nationwide. Earlier, in the previous year, drivers represented by Local 853 were also compelled to strike for weeks, ultimately leading to a favorable outcome for their contract negotiations.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, stressed the necessity for US Foods to negotiate fairly, reminding that, “The clock is ticking. Either US Foods puts a fair contract on the table or Local 135 Teamsters will be on strike.” He firmly believes that the company is more than capable of meeting the financial demands of its workers, given its immense profitability.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has grown to represent 1.3 million workers across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The stakes are high as this gathering storm may compel a strike that could disrupt the supply chain in a critical business sector.

As the January 30 deadline approaches, all eyes are on US Foods to see if they can come to the bargaining table and negotiate terms that address the critical concerns raised by their workers. These negotiations could set a precedent for future labor relations and worker rights across the food distribution industry.