Costco Rejects Majority of Teamsters' Demands
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- Costco rejected 98% of Teamsters' proposals, risking a labor dispute.
- Teamsters filed charges against Costco for unfair labor practices.
- The current contract expires Jan 31, 2025, risking a strike by 18,000 workers.
Company Fails to Agree on Key Protections as Contract Deadline Looms
Press Contact: Kara Deniz Phone: (202) 497-6610 Email: kdeniz@teamster.org
(WASHINGTON) – Costco has rejected nearly all Teamsters’ proposals, ignoring key clauses on seniority, weather policies, and paid leave. By dismissing 98% of provisions, Costco takes an aggressive anti-union stance, failing to bargain in good faith.
“The clock is ticking, and Costco continues to waste time with surface bargaining,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “Costco’s actions are pushing us closer to a labor dispute every day.”
The Teamsters filed unfair labor practice charges against Costco for harassing workers and removing union materials. Costco even rejected a proposal on using bulletin boards, potentially resolving some labor board issues.
“Costco isn’t respecting its employees in negotiations,” stated Tom Erickson, Teamsters Warehouse Division Director. “The Teamsters will not allow member rights to be ignored.”
As the third largest global retailer, Costco reported $6.3 billion in net profits in 2023. The Teamsters demand a contract that reflects these profits and ensures employee rights.
“It’s disappointing that Costco rejected 98% of our proposals,” said Michele Javier, a Costco worker. “We are determined to win the contract and hold Costco accountable.”
The current National Master Agreement expires on January 31, 2025. Without an acceptable agreement, over 18,000 workers may strike.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million workers in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow on Twitter @Teamsters and “like” on Facebook.
---
Read More USA Works News
