For the first time ever, a group of 150 Costco fleet drivers voted in April to become members of Teamsters Local 174. Costco was given a deadline to reach a deal: 90 days to a first contract, or the group will have no choice but to walk off the job. As the company drags its feet and the deadline looms, the group came together this weekend and voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike if one is needed.
The pace of negotiations started strong, and for a time it appeared that a contract could potentially be reached before the 90-day deadline expired. However, as time passed, management changed their strategy and began slow-walking the process, even going as far as backing away from previously discussed negotiation dates.
“With the finish line in sight, Costco management slammed on the brakes, giving us no choice but to take this vote,” said Teamsters Local 174 Secretary-Treasurer Rick Hicks. “I don’t know what management is waiting for, but this vote showed that our members are not willing to wait any longer. They’re strong, they’re motivated, and they’re ready to fight.
“A strike is always a last resort, but the Company has the ability to eliminate that possibility,” Hicks continued. “We are hopeful this strike authorization vote will motivate management to return to the bargaining table and reward their employees with a contract that recognizes the value of their contributions to the Company’s bottom line. As of today, Costco’s net worth is nearly $400 billion, making it the 23rd richest company in the world. The ball is in their court.”
Founded in 1909, Teamsters Local 174 represents 8,400 working men and women in the Seattle area. “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TeamstersLocal174.