Las Vegas Warehouse Workers Secure Wage Hikes and Improved Benefits

Las Vegas Warehouse Workers Secure Improved Contract with Significant Gains

In a remarkable display of solidarity, over 140 employees at Smith’s Food and Drug in Las Vegas, affiliated with Teamsters Local 14, have successfully ratified a new collective bargaining agreement. This contract marks a substantial victory, bringing about notable wage hikes, enhanced health benefits, and robust workplace protections.

According to Jason Gateley, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 14, “These workers became Teamsters in January and never let up on demanding what they were rightfully owed. They proved their strength through unity and militancy, and Kroger had no choice but to present a fair contract offer.”

The newly established three-year agreement entails a 20 percent salary boost, bolstered health care provisions, and the introduction of a defined benefit pension plan. Employees are now assured a 40-hour workweek, improved seniority rights, as well as protections related to picket lines.

Lance Taylor, a warehouse worker and member of Local 14, commented, “We joined the Teamsters to win a contract that reflects our skilled work, and that’s what we accomplished by never backing down from this fight. We were ready to strike to get our fair share, and the company knew it. Now we’re protected by a strong Teamsters contract.”

Smith’s Food and Drug operates as a subsidiary of Kroger, which last year achieved over $2.6 billion in net earnings. Across the nation, the Teamsters union represents more than 7,000 Kroger workers. Prior to the contract's finalization, members of Local 14 had already approved a strike vote and engaged in practice picketing at the Las Vegas distribution center.

Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, observed, “Our members demonstrated to everyone what happens when workers fight together. When we show we are unified and prepared to hit the picket line, strong contracts follow. Thousands of Kroger Teamsters across the country were ready to back them up — and Kroger made the right call.”

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For further information, visit Teamster.org. Follow updates on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.