Teamsters Local 282 Drivers in NY Vote to Authorize Strike at US Foods

NYC Teamsters Poised for Strike, Demanding Better Contract Terms

In a bold move, Teamsters Local 282 members in New York are prepared to halt their wheels unless US Foods delivers a more equitable contract. These 260 drivers have unanimously agreed to a potential strike, voicing the need for improved wages, enhanced benefits, and safer working environments. A failure to meet their demands could disrupt crucial deliveries to restaurants, hospitals, and schools across the New York tri-state area.

Tom Gesualdi, President of Local 282, emphasized, “Our members not only deliver US Foods products, they drive the company’s profits. US Foods has the resources to offer a fair deal and avert a strike. Our members know their worth and won’t back down.” Echoing this sentiment, seasoned driver Tony Casten remarked, “If we don’t get a contract that recognizes our hard work, we’ll have no choice but to strike. It’s the last thing we want to do, but when push comes to shove, we have to stand up for ourselves and make sure our labor is respected. We’re not asking for anything unreasonable.”

Given US Foods’ impressive financial stature—boasting a market capitalization exceeding $19 billion and net sales of $39.4 billion in 2025—the drivers' call for fair compensation seems well-founded. However, Local 282 is not alone in this confrontation. Teamsters from Local 2 and Local 190 are also facing contract challenges with US Foods, suggesting a potential larger-scale labor movement.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, warned of broader repercussions, stating, “Our fight isn’t just in New York. If US Foods continues down this path, it will pay the price across the country. The Teamsters represent more than 5,000 US Foods workers nationwide and we are united and ready to take a stand against this company if necessary.”

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters remains a formidable force with over 1.3 million members across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more details on their initiatives, visit Teamster.org. Follow their updates on social media via @Teamsters and Facebook.com/teamsters.