UNFI Employees Choose Teamsters Union Representation
In a significant move, workers at United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) have voted to join the Teamsters, marking a pivotal point in the ongoing dialogue about workers' rights in the natural and organic food sector. This decision comes as more employees in the industry seek stronger protections and better working conditions.
What benefits do UNFI workers expect by joining the Teamsters? Increased bargaining power and improved labor rights top the list. The vote reflects a growing trend among employees seeking union representation as they strive for fair wages, healthcare benefits, and job security. Employees nationwide are increasingly asking, "How can unions improve our workplace conditions?"
Where does UNFI stand in the food industry landscape? As a leading distributor of natural and organic foods, UNFI's relationship with its workforce plays a crucial role in its operations. The recent vote intensifies focus on how labor relations within major companies impact their overall performance and growth.
How have other companies in the organic sector responded to similar unionization efforts? This decision at UNFI may influence similar movements at companies across the industry. Analysts and industry experts are closely watching to see if this will lead to a broader shift in labor dynamics, which could reshape industry standards.
For more information on the implications of union representation in the food industry, visit this resource.
The Facts -
- 280 Sarasota warehouse workers join Teamsters Local 79.
- UNFI suspended workers, trying to stop unionization amid crisis.
- Teamsters represent over 5,000 UNFI workers nationwide.
Warehouse Workers Overcome UNFI’s Union Busting to Secure Representation with Local 79
Press Contact: Daniel Moskowitz Phone: (770) 262-4971 Email: dmoskowitz@teamster.org
(SARASOTA, Fla.) – Nearly 280 warehouse workers in Sarasota triumph over UNFI’s aggressive union-busting efforts, voting to join Teamsters Local 79. UNFI management attempted to exploit Hurricane Milton's chaos to impede worker organization.
“I am ecstatic to be a Teamster,” said Ranjel Pineda, a UNFI worker. “Knowing we won't endure UNFI’s bullying and unfair practices is amazing.”
As 278 UNFI workers returned home post-storm, the company illegally suspended two organizing committee members without pay, attempting to undermine rights.
“UNFI acted like looters, exploiting workers amid a crisis,” stated Brian Rothman, Local 79 President. “Workers sent a strong message: no tolerance for bullying. Teamsters representation means respect is restored.”
Local 79 and the Teamsters Warehouse Division provided crucial support to workers amidst UNFI’s anti-worker tactics.
“UNFI’s attempt to exploit workers during a hurricane is appalling,” said Tom Erickson, Teamsters Warehouse Division Director. “We’ll secure a contract ensuring workers never face this again.”
The Teamsters represent 5,000+ UNFI workers nationwide. Since 2022, over 2,000 UNFI workers have voted to join the union.
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 us on Twitter @Teamsters and “like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.
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