LIVERMORE, Calif. – In a significant escalation of labor tensions, over 170 drivers represented by Teamsters Local 853 at US Foods in Livermore, California, have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike. This decisive action underscores the drivers’ determination to secure a fair collective bargaining agreement and signals a potential major disruption to food distribution in the region.
Teamsters Local 853 Drivers at US Foods Authorize Strike for Fair Contract
The drivers, who unionized with Teamsters Local 853 last year, are protesting US Foods’ protracted and what they deem as disingenuous approach to contract negotiations. Key issues fueling the potential U.s. Foods Strike include demands for equitable wages, comprehensive healthcare benefits, and robust job security provisions within their inaugural union contract.
Arcadio Alaniz, a US Foods driver and member of Local 853, articulated the drivers’ frustration: “We’re standing firm for fair wages, quality health care, and a strong first union contract that truly protects us and recognizes our essential contributions. Management’s unwillingness to engage in meaningful negotiations has forced our hand. We are demanding to be heard and to have our value acknowledged.”
Union representatives have criticized US Foods for employing delaying tactics throughout the bargaining process, characterizing the company’s approach as surface bargaining rather than a genuine effort to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The strike authorization vote serves as a powerful message to the company, demonstrating the drivers’ readiness to take decisive action if their demands are not met.
Ray Torres, Vice President of Local 853, emphasized the union’s commitment to its members: “Our goal remains to achieve a fair agreement through negotiation. However, US Foods has displayed a concerning lack of seriousness at the bargaining table. If this pattern of disregard continues, we will be left with no alternative but to initiate a u.s. foods strike to protect our members’ rights and livelihoods.”
This situation in Livermore mirrors previous labor disputes involving US Foods and the Teamsters. Notably, a significant labor dispute unfolded last year with Teamsters Local 705 in Chicago, triggered by similar accusations of unfair labor practices and a refusal to negotiate in good faith. That three-week strike, which garnered nationwide support and picket line extensions, ultimately concluded with a landmark contract that delivered substantial improvements in wages, healthcare, pensions, safety, and other crucial benefits for the workers. This past u.s. foods strike serves as a stark reminder of the Teamsters’ resolve and their capacity to effectively advocate for their members.
Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, issued a strong warning to US Foods: “US Foods must learn from its recent history. We are prepared to hold them accountable. Should they persist in their refusal to engage in serious negotiations with Local 853, they will face significant consequences. Our members are united and prepared to fight for the strong first contract they rightfully deserve.”
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, established in 1903, represents 1.3 million hardworking individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For further information, please visit Teamster.org. Stay connected with the Teamsters on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.
