Teamsters drivers at US Foods in Livermore, California, have ratified their first contract, securing a three-year agreement that enhances pay and benefits. This development follows a week-long strike organized by the members of Local 853.
Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, commented on the outcome: “US Foods thought they could underestimate the Teamsters, but our members don’t break. They held the line to win the contract they deserve. When Teamsters fight, corporations fold.”
Victor Sanchez, a driver with US Foods and member of Local 853, expressed satisfaction with the results: “We showed this company that we would not back down until we got the pay and benefits we’ve earned.”
The newly ratified contract includes a 13 percent wage increase for nearly 200 drivers, improved safety measures, paid administrative leave, and significant savings in health care costs. Additionally, the negotiating committee secured an expiration date for this agreement that aligns with other US Foods Teamsters contracts in the West. This strategic alignment aims to strengthen bargaining positions for future negotiations.
Steve Beck, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 853, emphasized the collaborative efforts within the union: “We will always fight and deliver for our hardworking members. Our local is working hand-in-hand with other locals in our region, showing the company that the Teamsters are unstoppable.”
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters was founded in 1903 and represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.
For more information about their activities or to follow updates from them online, visit Teamster.org or find them on social media platforms such as X @Teamsters and Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.
Information from this article can be found here.
