Costco Teamsters to Vote on Strike as Bargaining Stalls on Economics

Costco Workers Prepare for Possible Strike Amid Contract Negotiations

As negotiations continue between Costco and the Teamsters, the atmosphere remains tense with the possibility of a strike looming. Despite weeks of discussions, the gap between the company's proposals and the union's demands remains significant.

(SAN DIEGO) – During their third week of negotiations, the Costco Teamsters National Negotiating Committee made some headway regarding seniority rights and shop steward roles. However, a comprehensive economic proposal from the union remains unaddressed by the company. This has led to growing dissatisfaction over issues such as wages and retirement benefits, despite Costco's strong financial performance.

Tom Erickson, the Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, stated, “We’ve made some strides at the table this week, but we remain far apart on economic issues.” He emphasized the union's readiness to strike if Costco fails to acknowledge the contributions of its workers in their next offer.

Union member Lance Knowles, working at a New Jersey Costco, expressed similar sentiments, declaring, “Costco’s record-breaking profits are built on our hard work. If Costco wants to call itself a ‘pro-worker’ company, it’s time to prove it at the bargaining table.”

Next week, Teamsters nationwide will vote on whether to authorize a strike and participate in practice pickets. This comes as the expiration of the current Costco National Master Agreement, which covers over 18,000 workers, approaches on January 31. With Costco reporting $7.4 billion in profits for 2024 – a notable increase from past years – the union is pressing for a contract that reflects their financial achievements.

Final negotiations are set to occur near Costco's corporate headquarters in Issaquah, Washington, starting January 20. The union is firm on securing a contract that aligns with the company's economic success.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For further details, visit Teamster.org. Connect with them on social media via Twitter @Teamsters and Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.