DS Waters Drivers & Standard Coffee Workers Ratify New 5-Year Contracts

Late last week, Teamsters Local 727 members employed by DS Waters (i.e. Hinckley Springs) ratified two new 5-year collective bargaining agreements that cover Drivers and Standard Coffee employees. Among the many achievements of these contracts were across-the-board raises and an elimination of the progressive wage scale for all current employees.

Drivers will be guaranteed a real wage increase under the new CBA. With the elimination of the progressive wage scale, any current employee not receiving the full wage rate will receive a 15% increase by the first full pay period of 2019. Additionally, the Local 727 bargaining committee secured a full economic re-opener with the right to strike that will allow healthcare benefits, wages, cooler exchange fees, and additional economic provisions to be revisited in one year.

Scrapping the illogical progressive wage scale was a top concern for members. Local 727 is proud to report that it was able to do just that. The Union would like to thank the bargaining committee for their hard work in securing such a strong contract.

In addition to wage increases, the new CBAs also enhanced job protections by introducing an easier and more streamlined grievance procedure, limiting drug testing, and requiring just cause for disciplinary actions. Furthermore, the Company is now required to notify and bargaining with the Union over any planned changes to either its modified work program or FMLA leave policies. Both Drivers and Standard Coffee workers will also receive a $25.00 increase in the maximum safety shoe reimbursement amount.

Members with questions should contact Business Representative Nick Micaletti at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected]

Category: BEVERAGE