Dairy Workers Strike for Fair Wages at Ben & Jerry’s Supplier

Dairy Workers Strike for Better Pay and Conditions at Key Supplier for Ben & Jerry's

A significant labor dispute has erupted at St. Albans Creamery, affecting the production chain of popular ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s. Over 60 employees, represented by Teamsters Local 597, have initiated a strike due to dissatisfaction with management practices at the creamery, a subsidiary of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA).

The workers are demanding improvements in their wages, enhanced safety protocols, and the elimination of excessive overtime requirements. Curtis Clough, President of Local 597, emphasized the workers' frustrations, stating, “St. Albans Creamery workers have been pushed to the edge by the company’s refusal to treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.” He further mentioned that the workers’ demands include achieving wage parity with other DFA employees and securing a fair contract.

The current strike follows a previous one-day protest over unfair labor practices in early September. Employees have raised concerns about ongoing unsafe working environments and inadequate management responses. Despite attempts by the bargaining committee to negotiate a more favorable agreement, the company has not engaged in productive negotiations.

The St. Albans facility is a crucial supplier of milk and cream to the Ben & Jerry’s plant nearby, and the strike may disrupt the nationwide supply chain of the beloved ice cream brand.

Expressing the workers' resolve, Lynn Daigle, an employee at the facility and member of Local 597, remarked, “Every day, we put in long hours to keep this creamery running, but the company refuses to address poor management and safety risks. We deserve a contract that reflects our hard work and ensures we can do our jobs safely without being forced into excessive overtime — and we’ll be out here until we get it.”

Teamsters Local 597, established in 1939, spans various sectors such as dairy processing, warehousing, and security, among others. Further details about their activities can be found at teamsterslocal597.net.