Drivers at FreshPoint Chicago Unite with Teamsters for Better Conditions and Rights

Drivers at FreshPoint Chicago Unite with Teamsters

In a significant move towards improving their working conditions, drivers at FreshPoint Chicago, a Sysco subsidiary that focuses on delivering high-quality produce to upscale restaurants, have overwhelmingly voted to join the Teamsters Local 710 union. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the drivers, who sought to end their at-will employment status, demand better wages, and secure enhanced benefits.

Jose Medina, a FreshPoint driver and new member of Local 710, expressed the frustrations of his colleagues: "Since Sysco acquired us, our working hours have drastically increased, without any corresponding pay raise. When we voiced our concerns, management turned a blind eye. It became clear that we needed to take action — joining the Teamsters was the solution to make our voices heard."

The FreshPoint facility, formerly known as Greco and Sons, was taken over by Sysco in 2021. Following the acquisition, the working conditions began to worsen, with the drivers experiencing work weeks extending from 40 to over 60 hours without additional compensation. In response to the organizing efforts, Sysco reportedly launched an aggressive and costly anti-union campaign, employing various tactics aimed at intimidating the workers.

Michael J. Cales, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 710, commented on the struggles faced by the drivers: "Sysco has maintained a hostile work environment, going to great lengths to suppress these workers’ efforts to organize. For a period of 12 weeks, the drivers endured intense anti-union meetings and intimidation tactics. However, their determination to unionize and stand together proved unshakeable. We are thrilled to welcome them to Local 710 and are eager to negotiate a contract that they genuinely deserve."

This successful organization at FreshPoint Chicago is part of a broader wave of union victories at Sysco and its various subsidiaries, representing the fourth win for the Teamsters this month. Earlier victories included drivers at Sysco/SYGMA in Kansas City, logistics workers in Kent, Washington, and warehouse staff in Detroit.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, emphasized the collective dissatisfaction among Sysco workers: "Workers can no longer tolerate the exploitation they face from Sysco. Despite the attempts of union-busting consultants and corporate propaganda, the truth cannot be concealed. We are committed to advocating for the rights of every Sysco employee and ensuring they receive the respect, dignity, and union representation they rightfully deserve."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents approximately 1.3 million hardworking individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Through their organization efforts, these drivers aim to foster a positive change not only within Sysco but also across the industry.

For further details, visit Teamsters.org or follow them on Twitter @Teamsters and on Facebook.