UNFI Drivers in SC Join Teamsters Local 509, Ready for Contract Talks

The Facts -

Richburg Drivers Join Teamsters for Better Working Conditions

In a significant move to enhance their wages, benefits, and working conditions, over 50 drivers at UNFI in Richburg, South Carolina, have voted to join Teamsters Local 509. This marks another successful organizing effort by the Teamsters at the largest distributor for Amazon's Whole Foods.

"When the workplace turns toxic, you have to set boundaries and lines need to be drawn that management can't cross. A Teamsters contract allows us to draw that line," remarked Brian Rackley, a driver at UNFI and new member of Local 509. "We're looking forward to negotiating a strong first agreement that protects our rights at work and protects us with the wages and benefits that we have rightfully earned."

Since 2022, the Teamsters have welcomed over 3,000 UNFI workers into their ranks nationwide. The union, representing more than 5,000 workers across the country, continues to grow its influence within the company.

Brian Clardy, President of Local 509, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It's an honor to welcome these drivers into Local 509. Now we will get to work at the bargaining table to negotiate a strong first Teamsters contract that brings their wages, benefits, and working conditions in line with what other Teamsters at UNFI have already achieved."

South Carolina drivers are joining an expanding movement within UNFI. Earlier this year, nearly 100 drivers in Texas and drivers in Wisconsin chose to join the Teamsters. These efforts build on successful contract negotiations that delivered significant gains for over 1,000 UNFI Teamsters in Florida, Georgia, and Illinois, including $8 hourly raises and comprehensive benefits.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, emphasized the union's ongoing efforts, saying, "In every corner of the country, UNFI workers are standing together with the Teamsters because they've seen what we've accomplished at the bargaining table. This momentum will continue. We will keep building power and density at UNFI until every worker has the union contract that they deserve."

Established in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million workers across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit Teamster.org. Stay updated by following the Teamsters on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

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