99% of Teamsters Members Support Strike if Labor Contract Agreement Not Reached
The Teamsters union has announced that its members have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike against Anheuser-Busch’s breweries in the U.S. if the union and the beermaker fail to reach an agreement on a new labor contract early next year. Out of the 5,000 Teamsters members employed at 12 Anheuser-Busch breweries in the U.S., 99% voted in favor of the strike to secure higher wages, job protection, and benefits. The current contract is set to expire on February 29, 2024.
“Powerful Strike Vote” Demonstrates Teamsters’ Determination
Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien expressed the union’s commitment to obtaining a favorable contract for its members, stating, “Teamsters stand firm in our fight for the best contract at Anheuser-Busch, and this powerful strike vote proves it.” O’Brien emphasized that the dedication and hard work of Teamsters members contribute to the success of Anheuser-Busch products. He added, “If Anheuser-Busch’s executives can’t respect workers and negotiate an agreement, we will take to the streets.”
Job Security and Stock Buybacks at the Center of Dispute
While the union and Anheuser-Busch reached tentative agreements on health care and retiree benefits, they have not addressed job security concerns since mid-November. The union’s announcement also criticized the company’s decision to allocate $1 billion in stock buybacks to wealthy investors while failing to prioritize the protection of good jobs.
Teamsters Ready to Take Action
Jeff Padellaro, the director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference, stated that the union is not eager to resort to a strike but is fully prepared to do so if necessary. Padellaro emphasized, “The Teamsters don’t want to be forced onto the picket line at any employer, but we are fully prepared to walk if Anheuser-Busch doesn’t get serious about negotiating a record contract that also protects good union jobs.”
Anheuser-Busch Responds to Strike Authorization
An Anheuser-Busch spokesperson assured that the company is aware of the Teamsters’ strike authorization vote and considers it a common occurrence during labor negotiations. The company expressed its commitment to negotiating in good faith with the union, acknowledging the talent, commitment, and drive of its employees.
Anheuser-Busch Sales Slump Amid Controversial Partnership
Anheuser-Busch InBev, the global beer conglomerate that owns Budweiser and Bud Light, has seen sales decline in recent times following a controversial partnership with transgender activist Dylan Mulvaney. The company reported a 17.1% drop in North American sales volume during the third quarter, preceded by a 14.5% decline in the previous quarter. Bud Light, once the best-selling beer in the U.S., lost its title to Modelo Especial, owned by Constellation Brands.
Union’s Recent Labor Agreement with UPS
The potential strike by the Teamsters against Anheuser-Busch comes after the union successfully negotiated a new five-year labor agreement with logistics giant United Parcel Service (UPS) earlier this year, averting a strike. The agreement included pay raises and increased benefits for UPS employees.
Source: Fox Business