Breakthru Beverage Workers Unite with Teamsters for Fair Labor Standards

Breakthru Beverage Workers Unite with Teamsters

In a significant move for labor rights, drivers at Breakthru Beverage in St. Louis, Missouri, have voted overwhelmingly in favor of unionizing with Teamsters Local 600. This decision marks a critical step towards securing better wages, improved benefits, and safer working conditions for the 41 employees involved.

Teamsters Local 600, which represents working men and women in the St. Louis County area, has been actively working to consolidate its strength and support for these drivers. John Kelting, the President of Local 600, emphasized the long-standing exploitation of these workers: "Breakthru has taken advantage of these drivers for far too long. It’s now time for these new Teamsters to obtain the wages, benefits, and working conditions they rightfully deserve."

The call for unionization stems from the desire among the drivers for a collective voice that can effectively challenge the company's practices. Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference, acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the drivers, stating, "This dedicated group of drivers work hard and deserve a contract that honors their worth. We are ready to stand alongside them as they fight for a fair first contract."

Breakthru Beverage, recognized as one of the largest beverage wholesalers in North America, boasts operations across 15 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada. Union representation already extends to hundreds of workers across different Breakthru locations nationwide, showcasing the Teamsters' influence in the industry.

One of the new members of Local 600, Ray Molett, who has worked as a driver for Breakthru for six years, expressed hope and determination following the vote: "Joining the Teamsters gives us the opportunity to voice our concerns and hold the company accountable. Now we have a voice on the job and a seat at the negotiating table. We are ready to fight for a strong Teamsters contract that includes better pay and respect."

The union's leadership is resolute in their commitment to the newly organized drivers, promising to support their movement for fair labor practices. The discussions around the first contract are expected to begin shortly, and both the union and the drivers are eager for outcomes that reflect their hard work and dedication.

Teamsters Local 600 has encouraged the community to stay informed about the ongoing union activities, aiming to strengthen not just the bargaining position of the Breakthru drivers but also uplift labor standards across the industry. Those interested in more information about the Teamsters Local 600 can visit their official website at teamsters600.org.

As labor movements gain momentum across various sectors, the Breakthru Beverage drivers' unionization is a timely reminder of the collective power of workers striving for dignity in the workplace. This development encourages a broader conversation about the rights of employees and the importance of union representation in achieving fair labor standards.