Local 727 Stands in Solidarity with Local 175 Members as they Initiate a One-Day ULP Strike Against Coca-Cola
Teamsters Local 727 is proud to stand in solidarity with our fellow Teamster Brothers and Sisters of Local 175.
According to a recent statement released by Teamsters Local 175 Secretary-Treasurer Ralph Winter, approximately 28 members of Local 175 initiated a one-day Unfair Labor Practice strike in Bluefield, West Virginia on Wednesday, November 7th to protest unilateral changes made by their employer, Coca-Cola Consolidated. Thanks to contract provisions which allow Teamsters in West Virginia to recognize and refuse to cross picket lines, the ULP strike reportedly resulted in a state-wide shut down of Coca-Cola distribution operations.
“Our Union is proud to support our Teamster Brothers and Sisters of Local 175 in their pursuit for fair treatment and respect,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “Local 727 members understand the challenges of battling a soda giant. We’ve witnessed firsthand the power that comes from standing together and presenting a united front. We will always stand behind our fellow Teamsters when their rights are infringed upon.”
In December 2015, 319 Local 727-represented production, warehouse workers, and transport drivers employed by Coca-Cola Refreshments stood together for nearly a month to demand fair treatment from their employer. After 27 days on the ULP picket line, Local 727’s solidarity and perseverance were rewarded when the Union succeeded in securing a CBA that provided members with an enhanced healthcare plan, annual wage increases, and improved retirement benefits.
“Local 727’s success has always come from the solidarity and strength of our Union. Together we have been able to fight back major soda corporations and secure the rights of our members,” added Secretary-Treasurer Coli. “We are proud to now support the members of Local 175 as they pursue their own fight for dignity and respect.”
Teamsters Local 727’s current collective bargaining agreement with Great Lakes Coca-Cola Distribution is set to expire April 20, 2019. Negotiations for new CBA’s covering Inside and Outside workers will begin in the next few months.
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Category: Union News
