Victorville Teamsters Strike for Unpaid Wages, Fair Contract at KDP

Teamsters Local 896 Strikes Against Keurig Dr Pepper Over Unsettled Arbitration and Fair Compensation Claims

(VICTORVILLE, Calif.) – The persistent conflict between Teamsters Local 896 and Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has reached a boiling point, prompting over 150 workers to initiate a strike. The labor dispute centers on grievances including unpaid arbitration awards and calls for improved wages and pension plans.

According to Phil Cooper, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 896, "KDP was ordered to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars last year after it unlawfully attempted to end its sick time policy, but these members still haven’t seen a dime.” Cooper emphasized the severity of the situation, labeling it a “blatant violation of federal law.” He added, “We will be out here every day, 24 hours a day, until KDP pays its workers what they are legally owed.”

The strike follows unsuccessful contract negotiations, where the company's latest offer was firmly rejected by the workforce. The proposal was criticized for providing minimal increases in pay and pension benefits, failing to meet workers' expectations.

Adan Soto, a forklift operator lead at KDP, expressed the workers’ frustration, stating, “We have given everything to this company — our time, our health, our labor. Instead of respect, the company stole our sick time and we’re still fighting for the wages we deserve. A good contract would mean stability for my family and dignity for all of us who keep this place running. That’s why we’re on strike.”

This strike in Victorville follows the recent success of a strike in Ottumwa, Iowa, where Teamsters achieved significant wage increases and enhanced health care benefits.

Having defended the interests of working-class families for over 75 years, Teamsters Local 896 remains committed to advocating for justice and equitable treatment. For more details, visit teamsterslocal896.org.