Florida UNFI Workers Become Teamsters Members
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) drivers in Sarasota, Florida, have voted to join Teamsters Local 79.
- The drivers are seeking a strong Teamsters contract to address wages, healthcare, retirement benefits, job security, and working conditions.
- Their decision to unionize marks the third Teamsters UNFI organizing victory at the company this year.
Drivers in Sarasota Win Representation Against Outsourcing
United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) drivers in Sarasota, Florida, have recently united with Teamsters Local 79, an affiliate of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. The workers resolved to join the union following a unanimous vote, despite UNFI's vehement opposition and attempted union-busting strategies. The drivers took their fight to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to ensure a union election and prevent their jobs from being outsourced to J.B. Hunt, a well-known non-union company.
Rob Kroupa, a seven-year UNFI driver, expressed the drivers' collective relief, saying they now look forward to improving their living standards via bargaining. They aim to address ongoing issues such as wages, health care, retirement benefits, job security, and working conditions through a strong Teamsters contract.
Despite substantial hurdles, the drivers remained resolute in their determination to secure union representation. Brian Rothman, President of Local 79, applauded their unwavering solidarity, emphasising its importance in the upcoming contract negotiations.
The NLRB ruled in favor of the UNFI drivers on March 14, approving a union election. This ruling followed the Board's agreement with Teamsters Local 79, which had strongly opposed UNFI's false plans to outsource jobs. The Board is also investigating if UNFI committed unfair labor practices by subcontracting jobs to J.B. Hunt.
Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, congratulated the drivers for their brave move to become union members. He reiterated the union's commitment to similar campaigns across the nation, including in nearby Pompano Beach, Florida.
This victory marks the third successful Teamsters UNFI campaign this year and adds to previous wins in various states nationwide. The Teamsters now represent over 4,000 UNFI members across the U.S. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking individuals in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit Teamster.org.
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