#United States #San Diego #Southern California #Teamsters Union #Costco Teamsters

Southern California Costco Teamsters Mobilize for Contract Negotiations

In a significant gathering in San Diego, hundreds of Costco Teamsters from across Southern California participated in a practice picket, as they prepare for the looming January 31 deadline concerning the Costco National Master Agreement. This mobilization aligns with ongoing efforts across the nation, where more than 18,000 Teamsters are advocating for a groundbreaking contract that reflects their contributions to the company's immense success.

Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Costco has just 15 days to present our members with the contract they deserve, or they'll face the full power of this union." His remarks underscore the resolve of the Teamsters to attain the strongest contract in the history of Costco. The workers are organized and prepared to take necessary actions if their demands are not met.

The recent practice pickets have been strategically organized not only in Southern California but also in other areas, including Hayward, California, and Sumner, Washington. Teamsters on the East Coast also joined the cause with a rally in Long Island, showcasing a unified front demanding fair treatment from Costco.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, pointed out the vital role that Costco workers play in contributing to the company's financial success, stating, "This company's massive profits are a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our members." He further articulated the sentiment shared among the workers, which is a strong commitment to securing an equitable agreement. However, he warned that if Costco fails to fulfill their requests, the repercussions could be severe, impacting the company’s operational stability.

Costco's financial performances have been astonishing, boasting an annual revenue of $254 billion and net profits of $7.4 billion—a staggering 135 percent increase since 2018. Despite these impressive figures, dissatisfaction looms as Teamsters feel undervalued and undercompensated. John Robledo, a Costco employee from Carson, California, reflected the frustrations of many workers, stating, "I've given decades of my life to this company, and all we are asking for is a fair share of its massive success."

The stakes are high as the final negotiation phase is set to kick off near Costco's corporate headquarters in Issaquah, Washington, on January 20. Teamsters have declared that they will cease working immediately after the current contract expires on January 31 if the negotiations do not yield positive outcomes.

This effort emphasizes the solidarity among the Teamsters, who have been represented since 1903. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters encompasses 1.3 million workers across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For continued updates and information, visit Teamster.org, and follow them on social media platforms like X and Facebook.

The upcoming discussions will test Costco's commitment to its workers and the willingness of the Teamsters to fight for what they deserve, as tensions mount and the deadline approaches.