Teamsters Secure Wage Increases and Protections for Springfield Workers

Significant Contract Approval Ensures Better Wages and Benefits for Springfield's Local 245

Media Contact: Lena Melentijevic Phone: (347) 208-2279 Email: LMelentijevic@teamster.org

(SPRINGFIELD, Mo.) - The workforce at the Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) plant in Springfield, Missouri, has ratified a robust new three-year contract, offering notable enhancements in wages and benefits for over 130 employees. Represented by Teamsters Local 245, these warehouse staff, CDL drivers, maintenance, and transport personnel are integral to the nationwide distribution of dairy and coffee products.

The ratified agreement introduces a total pay increase of 10.5% spread over the contract's duration and includes a three percent enhancement for pensions, better time-off structures, and extended bereavement and FMLA leave.

Seth Anderjaska, Vice President and Assistant Business Representative with Local 245, highlighted the significance of the agreement: “Our members are the backbone of this operation, keeping dairy and coffee products moving out of Springfield every day. Their hard work keeps this facility running, and this agreement rewards that work with better pay, stronger protections, and real economic security.”

Additionally, the contract stipulates that grievances will be addressed under the Master Dairy Agreement's Joint Adjustment Committee, ensuring fair resolution processes.

Jarrad Black, a member and steward of Local 245, emphasized the personal impact of the agreement, stating, “This contract makes a real difference for our families. Between the raises, better benefits, and knowing our insurance costs won’t go up, we finally have some peace of mind and security for the future.”

Teamsters Local 245 represents over 2,100 workers in Missouri. For further details, visit teamsters245.com.