Teamsters in Iowa Approve New Contracts with Wage and Benefit Gains

Enhanced Protections Secured for Vestis Workers

In a significant development for labor rights, Teamsters-represented drivers and plant workers at Vestis locations across Iowa have successfully voted in favor of new collective bargaining agreements. Representing four locals, 120 drivers and 58 plant workers have solidified their terms of employment under these agreements.

Rocco Calo, Teamsters Industrial Trades Division Director, remarked, “Vestis Teamsters in Iowa continue to raise the bar for contracts throughout the laundry industry. Winning strong contract after strong contract just goes to show that Teamsters never waiver when fighting for our members. From Sioux City to Waterloo and all facilities in between, Vestis Teamsters are providing essential laundry and linen services for businesses, hospitals, and restaurants across the state and deserve the best possible contract that rewards them for their work.”

Under these newly ratified three-year agreements, improvements include salary hikes, 401(k) plans with employer contributions, and stable healthcare premium protection for both sets of workers.

Tom Harms, a route service representative, expressed his satisfaction: “The hard work that went into this contract cannot be overstated. We could not be more excited to have new benefits for commission-based drivers, a solidified pay structure for sick and vacation time, and we were able to maintain our current health care premiums. We are proud of this contract and look forward to the next three years.”

Theresa Muhe, a seasoned Teamster and Vestis plant worker of 36 years, emphasized the union's continuing efforts for better terms: “Because of our union, we continue to make gains with each new contract. As long as we stick together and stay strong, we will continue to prosper in future contracts.”

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