Sysco Teamsters Empower Workers with Strike Authorization

Sysco Teamsters in California Authorize Strike for Fair Wages

Over 400 Warehouse Workers, Drivers Demand Fair Contract in Bay Area

In a significant move that underscores the ongoing labor challenges in the food service industry, over 400 Teamsters at Sysco's San Francisco location have voted unanimously to authorize a strike. This decision comes as drivers and warehouse workers are standing up for fair contracts that include essential wage increases, improved benefits, and better working conditions. They advocate for compensation that not only aligns with industry standards but also reflects the high cost of living in the Bay Area.

Andy Gonzalez, a Sysco driver and member of Teamsters Local 853, highlighted the economic pressures faced by workers in the area. "San Francisco is one of the most expensive places to live on earth, and we need a contract that keeps up with inflation," he stated. "None of us want to be on strike, but it is time for management to come to the table with serious proposals that address our needs. Anything less will push us towards a picket line."

Local 853 has celebrated substantial organizing victories over the past months, positioning itself strongly against Sysco’s competitors in the region. Earlier this year, workers at VISTAR, a subsidiary of Performance Food Group, overwhelmingly voted to join the union. Following that, members at US Foods took decisive action through a multi-week strike, leading to the successful negotiation of a robust contract.

Steve Beck, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 853, emphasized the shifting landscape within the industry, stating, "A few years ago, Sysco stood alone as the only unionized food service provider in the Bay Area. That is no longer the case. Their competitors are now Teamsters shops too. Sysco cannot lowball our members by relying on their previously nonunion competitors. We’re demanding a contract that is at par with what fellow Teamsters have already secured across the board."

The authorization for a strike represents more than just a demand for equitable treatment; it signals a broader effort among workers to unite under the Teamsters banner for better industry standards. This vote marks the second consecutive strike authorization that Teamsters at Sysco have taken in recent weeks. In conjunction, over 270 members from Local 162 in Portland voted by an impressive 99.5 percent to authorize a strike, which could expand significantly if fair agreements are not reached. This situation could potentially ignite labor disputes involving nearly 800 workers across the West Coast.

Sysco stands as one of the largest food service companies in the United States, and its profitability has been substantial. Reports indicate that in the past year, Sysco achieved net profits of $1.95 billion, marking a remarkable increase of more than 10 percent compared to the previous year. With the strike authorization vote, Local 853 is empowered to call for a work stoppage after the current contract expires, amplifying the urgency for Sysco to negotiate responsibly.

Tom Erickson, the Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, passionately articulated the position of the workers: "Sysco has absolutely no excuses for offering anything less than a contract that places Local 853 members on equal footing with what other Teamsters have achieved. If Sysco chooses to overlook the needs of these workers, they will undoubtedly face the full strength of Teamsters solidarity."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents approximately 1.3 million hardworking individuals across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Their ongoing outreach efforts continue to engage workers and advocate for worthwhile employment conditions within various sectors.

Contact:
Lena Melentijevic, (347) 208-2279

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