Teamsters Local 210 Strikes Against Perrigo Over Worker Benefit Cuts

Teamsters Local 210 Commences Strike Against Perrigo Over Benefit Reductions

Press Contact: Bernadette Kelly Phone: (917) 754-5918 Email: BKelly@ibtlocal210.org

(BRONX, N.Y.) – Workers at Perrigo Company's manufacturing plant in the Bronx are currently striking under the banner of Teamsters Local 210. The action follows the company's proposal to cut back on overtime protections and halt contributions to the workers' retirement plans.

Expressing strong opposition to the proposed changes, Bobby Bellach, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 210, stated, “The company is trying to force us to give into their demands, but our members will never accept a bad deal. Teamsters help Perrigo bring in over $100 million every year and must be paid their fair share.” Bellach emphasized that the union is determined to stand by its members until a fair agreement is reached, without yielding to pressure tactics.

Lydia Torres, Vice President of Local 210, highlighted the local economic difficulties faced by workers, saying, “At a time when working-class New Yorkers are struggling to afford this city, Perrigo wants to make it even harder by gutting hard-won overtime protections and retirement security.” She noted that while Perrigo plans to extend its operations to 24 hours daily, such expansion should not come at the expense of the workers' welfare.

The 190 employees involved in the strike serve in various roles at Perrigo, including compounders, inventory clerks, line operators, mechanics, and technicians. They are integral to the operations of the world's leading producer of private-label consumer health products.

Wilfredo Guzman, a 23-year veteran at Perrigo and chief steward, called for a return to negotiations, stating, “Many of us have worked for years at this company and have deep ties to our neighborhood. After decades on the job, we deserve a dignified retirement.” He urged Perrigo to negotiate in good faith to protect existing jobs and ensure new ones are equally beneficial.

The previous contract between Local 210 and Perrigo ended on August 31, with the next round of talks set for September 10. Until an agreement is reached, Teamsters plan to maintain a picket line from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day.

Teamsters Local 210 represents numerous workers across various sectors in New York and beyond. More information can be found at ibtlocal210.org.