Sysco Drivers in Spokane Achieve Landmark Contract with Teamsters Union

In a significant union victory, more than 50 drivers at Sysco's Spokane facility, represented by Teamsters Local 690, have successfully ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. This landmark contract includes a remarkable 34% wage increase, alongside reduced healthcare expenses, enhanced pension contributions, and extended vacation time for employees.

Larry Kroetch, the Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 690, proclaimed, "This is the most robust agreement we've ever secured at Sysco, which reflects the collective determination and unity displayed by our workforce." The negotiations leading up to the ratification were intense, especially as workers made it clear that they were prepared to strike if Sysco did not acknowledge their hard work with a fair contract.

Sysco is recognized as one of the largest and most profitable food service providers in the United States. In 2024, the company reported an impressive net profit of $1.95 billion, marking a year-over-year increase of over 10%. The significant profits indicated to the drivers at Sysco in Spokane that they deserved a contract that mirrored their contributions to the company's success. They officially voted, with an overwhelming majority, to authorize a strike, which turned up the pressure on management to fulfill their demands.

Gerald Strong, a dedicated Sysco driver and Local 690 member, expressed his enthusiasm following the contract approval. He stated, "Knowing that we are backed by such a strong Teamsters contract is invigorating for us all. This is undoubtedly the best contract we have ever negotiated. The combination of higher wages and lower healthcare costs will provide real security for our families for years to come."

The Teamsters union, which represents more than 10,000 Sysco employees nationwide, has seen a series of successful agreements over the past year. Noteworthy among them was the first-ever regional contract ratified in December. As other contracts for Sysco Teamsters in regions like Montana and Chicago are approaching expiration, workers are adamant about securing equally strong agreements in these areas, emphasizing their readiness to take necessary action.

Tom Erickson, the Teamsters Warehouse Division Director, stressed the importance of collective action, stating, "This contract showcases what can be accomplished when workers unite and refuse to accept less than they deserve. Sysco Teamsters across the nation are unequivocal; they expect contracts that reflect the company's record profits."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters has a rich history of advocating for hardworking individuals across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. With a membership base of 1.3 million, the Teamsters continue to protect the rights and welfare of laborers in various industries. For more information about the union and its activities, visit Teamster.org and follow them on X at @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

As labor negotiations continue across the country, the Spokane Sysco drivers' victory stands as a testament to the power of unity and resilience in securing fair labor practices and better working conditions for employees.