Over 130 Print Workers Join Teamsters for Better Wages and Benefits
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- 130 PCA workers left PPPWU for Teamsters Local 781.
- PPPWU's intimidation attempts fueled worker militancy.
- Teamsters promise fair treatment and strong contracts.
Packaging Workers Opt for Teamsters Union, Citing Desire for Improved Conditions
(BEDFORD PARK, Ill.) – In a significant move for unionization efforts, over 130 employees at Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) have decided to affiliate with Teamsters Local 781, seeking enhanced job benefits. The workers, previously represented by the Printing Packaging and Production Workers Union (PPPWU), chose to switch due to unsatisfactory wages and inadequate workplace support.
“We joined the Teamsters because we knew no other union could deliver the protections we’ve long needed. We saw other graphics workers win strong contracts by becoming the Teamsters, and we wanted the same,” expressed Carlos Maldonado, a PCA employee and fresh member of Local 781. “The PPPWU never delivered for us. They were only in it for themselves. As Teamsters, we will win a strong contract that ensures fair treatment and compensation that reflects our hard work.”
The PPPWU attempted to hinder the transition by intimidating workers and slowing down the process, but these efforts only intensified the workers’ determination to change unions.
Melquiades Manriquez-Ortega, another PCA worker and a new member of Local 781, remarked, “It feels great to finally have a real union in our corner fighting for us no matter what. The Teamsters had our backs throughout the entire process, even when the PPPWU tried to stop us. Seeing the professionalism of the Teamsters has been such a relief after dealing with the pathetic PPPWU for so long.”
Based in Lake Forest, Illinois, Packaging Corporation of America stands as one of North America's top producers in the containerboard and packaging sector, boasting a market value nearing $20 billion. The workforce at PCA was responsible for generating approximately $9 billion in revenue in the last fiscal year.
Paul Stripling, President of Local 781, praised the new members by saying, “These new Teamsters put up with a lot as they courageously fought to join our union. They not only had to fight against a company but also the PPPWU, which shamelessly tried to scare them out of demanding the strong union representation they deserve. Our new brothers and sisters did not break or bend. We’re proud to give them a strong union voice.”
Teamsters Local 781 advocates for thousands of workers across various sectors, including printing, packaging, airline, and warehousing. More information is available at Teamsters781.org.
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