UNFI Workers Gain Pay Hikes, Benefits in First Teamsters Contracts

The Facts -

New Opportunities for UNFI Workers Following Successful Teamsters Negotiations

In a significant development for over a thousand drivers and warehouse workers at United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI), newly signed contracts now promise substantial benefits. These agreements, the result of a credible strike threat, have been ratified by workers in Florida, Georgia, and Illinois, marking a major victory for the Teamsters union.

The workers, represented by Teamsters Locals 26, 79, 728, and 769, have secured their first contracts, which include significant wage increases, enhanced benefits, and the addition of a defined benefit pension plan.

“The unstoppable rank-and-file power we’re building at UNFI is delivering real results for workers,” remarked Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division. “These contracts are life-changing. They prove that when workers stand together, they can take on corporate greed and win. Every UNFI worker deserves the same protections, and the Teamsters are committed to organizing every last one of them.”

UNFI, known as the primary distributor for Whole Foods in the U.S., has witnessed a rise in Teamsters organization over the past three years. Over 1,000 UNFI workers joined the Teamsters recently, contributing to a total of over 2,500 new members since 2022. Teamsters membership at UNFI now exceeds 5,000.

James Knight, a driver from Pompano, Florida, and member of Local 769, emphasized the importance of the union's strength in achieving this milestone. “By organizing with the Teamsters and demanding our worth, we’ve secured the pay, benefits, and working conditions we deserve,” Knight stated. “This victory wouldn’t have been possible without the strength of our union. We’re proud and excited to work under our first Teamsters contract.”

The five-year contracts ensure an $8 hourly pay rise, comprehensive Teamsters health care, a defined benefit pension from the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Fund, enhanced safety measures, stronger seniority rights, and more paid time off. These accomplishments were driven by determined Teamsters members who held practice pickets nationwide, demonstrating their preparedness to strike if needed.

“Across the country, workers like me remained strong, organized, and showed our solidarity,” said Brad Duncan, a warehouse worker and Local 26 member based in Urbana, Illinois. “We proved that when we fight together, we win together. This agreement will be a game-changer for us and our families.”

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit Teamster.org. Follow them on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

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