Sysco Workers Secure Major Wage Increases and Improved Benefits
Tuesday, Feb 11, 2025 9:56 am ET
3min read In a significant victory for workers, more than 100 Sysco drivers and warehouse workers represented by Teamsters Local 916 have overwhelmingly ratified a new four-year collective bargaining agreement. This agreement locks in significant wage increases and major improvements to benefits, demonstrating the power of collective bargaining and the importance of fair compensation and working conditions.
The new agreement includes a 36 percent wage increase, maintaining an excellent Teamsters health care plan at a now lower cost, and enhancements to seniority rights, vacation time, and sick leave. These improvements reflect the unity and determination of the workers, who made it clear to management that they were ready to fight for what they deserved.
"This is the strongest agreement we’ve ever negotiated, and we’re proud to work under the protections it provides," said Matt Wilham, a 17-year Sysco Teamster and Local 916 shop steward. "We showed the company we were serious and willing to do whatever it took. Now, we have the wages, benefits, and job security we rightfully deserve."
Nationwide, the Teamsters represent over 10,000 workers at Sysco. Local 916’s victory is the latest in a wave of Teamsters wins at the company. In October, Sysco Teamsters in Kansas City secured major gains after a one-day strike. Last month, more than 400 Sysco Teamsters in Houston won a powerful contract following a credible strike threat.
These victories have put pressure on Sysco to address labor concerns and improve working conditions across its operations. The company has been forced to engage in serious negotiations with the Teamsters, offering significant wage increases and benefits to avoid strikes that could harm its business and reputation. In a statement, Sysco's executive vice president and chief human resources officer, Ron Phillips, acknowledged the need to offer competitive wages and a supportive work environment, stating, "Our goal is to offer colleagues competitive wages, a supportive environment, and jobs that provide room for growth and development."
The Teamsters' actions have also highlighted the potential negative impacts of strike threats on local communities and vulnerable populations who depend on Sysco's services. Sysco has emphasized the importance of responsible negotiations that benefit both its employees and local partners, stating, "The Teamsters’ actions harm our colleagues and their families, local businesses and the most vulnerable in our community who depend on Sysco to receive meals."
In conclusion, the recent wave of Teamsters wins at Sysco, including the Illinois agreement, has significantly influenced the company's labor relations and overall business strategy. These victories have demonstrated the power of collective bargaining and the importance of fair wages and benefits for workers. By addressing labor concerns and improving working conditions, Sysco can foster a more harmonious work environment, enhance its reputation, and ultimately, drive long-term success.
The new agreement includes a 36 percent wage increase, maintaining an excellent Teamsters health care plan at a now lower cost, and enhancements to seniority rights, vacation time, and sick leave. These improvements reflect the unity and determination of the workers, who made it clear to management that they were ready to fight for what they deserved.
"This is the strongest agreement we’ve ever negotiated, and we’re proud to work under the protections it provides," said Matt Wilham, a 17-year Sysco Teamster and Local 916 shop steward. "We showed the company we were serious and willing to do whatever it took. Now, we have the wages, benefits, and job security we rightfully deserve."
Nationwide, the Teamsters represent over 10,000 workers at Sysco. Local 916’s victory is the latest in a wave of Teamsters wins at the company. In October, Sysco Teamsters in Kansas City secured major gains after a one-day strike. Last month, more than 400 Sysco Teamsters in Houston won a powerful contract following a credible strike threat.
These victories have put pressure on Sysco to address labor concerns and improve working conditions across its operations. The company has been forced to engage in serious negotiations with the Teamsters, offering significant wage increases and benefits to avoid strikes that could harm its business and reputation. In a statement, Sysco's executive vice president and chief human resources officer, Ron Phillips, acknowledged the need to offer competitive wages and a supportive work environment, stating, "Our goal is to offer colleagues competitive wages, a supportive environment, and jobs that provide room for growth and development."
The Teamsters' actions have also highlighted the potential negative impacts of strike threats on local communities and vulnerable populations who depend on Sysco's services. Sysco has emphasized the importance of responsible negotiations that benefit both its employees and local partners, stating, "The Teamsters’ actions harm our colleagues and their families, local businesses and the most vulnerable in our community who depend on Sysco to receive meals."
In conclusion, the recent wave of Teamsters wins at Sysco, including the Illinois agreement, has significantly influenced the company's labor relations and overall business strategy. These victories have demonstrated the power of collective bargaining and the importance of fair wages and benefits for workers. By addressing labor concerns and improving working conditions, Sysco can foster a more harmonious work environment, enhance its reputation, and ultimately, drive long-term success.
Disclaimer: the above is a summary showing certain market information. AInvest is not responsible for any data errors, omissions or other information that may be displayed incorrectly as the data is derived from a third party source. Communications displaying market prices, data and other information available in this post are meant for informational purposes only and are not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Please do your own research when investing. All investments involve risk and the past performance of a security, or financial product does not guarantee future results or returns. Keep in mind that while diversification may help spread risk, it does not assure a profit, or protect against loss in a down market.
