Teamsters Authorize Strikes, Threatening Dairy Supply Chain Stability

The Facts -

Dairy Supply Chain Faces Potential Disruptions as Workers Vote on Strike Action

Contact: Matt McQuaid Phone: (771) 241-0015 Email: mmcquaid@teamster.org

Across several states, more than 1,000 members of the Teamsters union have shown support for potential strikes at Dairy Farmers of America (DFA). These workers, affiliated with Teamsters Locals 63, 120, 166, 186, 222, 455, 492, 495, 630, 683, and 952, are employed in crucial dairy processing and distribution roles in California, Colorado, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Utah.

"Our demands are clear and simple: protect our work, respect our time, and pay us what we’ve earned," stated Lou Villalvazo, Chairman of the DFA National Bargaining Committee. "DFA can still avoid a strike, but time is running out. Our members are ready to walk."

The union's move to authorize strikes arises from stalled contract negotiations, with pivotal issues like job security, time off, wages, benefits, and workplace safety on the table. Even a localized strike could significantly impact the dairy supply chain.

Peter Rosales, a Local 630 shop steward at Alta Dena Dairy in the City of Industry, Calif., expressed the workers' sentiment: “We know how much money DFA makes, and we know what we deserve. This company is only successful because of us, and we take pride in our work. All we’re asking for is our fair share.”

Concerns are further fueled by what the union describes as unfair labor practices by DFA. The overwhelming authorization for strike actions signals the workers' readiness to challenge these practices.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, with a history dating back to 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For further details, visit Teamster.org. Follow updates on X @Teamsters and Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

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