Workers at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Join Teamsters for Better Wages

Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Workers in Florida Join Teamsters

In a significant move towards enhanced worker rights, over 25 employees at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits located in Lakeland, Florida, have officially decided to join Teamsters Local 79. The vote, which showcased overwhelming support, highlights the workers' collective desire for improved wages, better benefits, and stronger job protections.

Jeff Padellaro, the Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference, expressed his enthusiasm for the workers' decision. Padellaro stated, “Congratulations to these workers on becoming Teamsters. They recognized the advantages their colleagues enjoyed after ratifying their contract and felt it was time they earned such benefits too. We are eager to support them in negotiating a fair initial contract.”

Together with 270 warehouse workers from the same facility who joined the Teamsters back in December 2024, these new members are seeking the respect and recognition they deserve. The warehouse employees had already ratified their first collective bargaining agreement in July 2025, setting a precedent for others within the company.

Brian A. Rothman, President of Local 79, emphasized the power of collective action: “These workers understand that by standing together, they amplify their voices. They were inspired by the successes achieved by the warehouse team and are eager to secure similar respect and rights for themselves. Local 79 is committed to supporting them throughout their negotiations for a better future.”

Curtis McCoy, a steward at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, echoed this sentiment, sharing: “We observed the advancements made by our colleagues in the warehouse through their Teamsters representation, and we want the same for ourselves. Joining the Teamsters equips us with the tools necessary to advocate for enhanced wages and an improved quality of life for our families.”

Founded in 1936, Teamsters Local 79 has established itself as a stalwart defender of workers' rights in southwest Florida. Representing close to 40 companies across nearly 100 locations, they continue to be a driving force for collective bargaining and improved work conditions in the region.

For more information about Teamsters Local 79 and their ongoing efforts, visit their official website at teamsterslocal79.org.

This move by the workers at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits is not just a milestone for the employees involved, but a strong indicator of the continuous push for fair labor practices across industries. As union representation grows, so does the hope for better working conditions and equity in the workplace.