Costco workers, represented by the Teamsters union, have voted to authorize a nationwide strike after ongoing negotiations over wages and benefits. With the current contract set to expire on January 31, employees are pushing for a fair deal that reflects the company’s recent financial success.
In this article, we will delve into details about why Costco workers are going on strike.
Costco unionized workers authorize nationwide strike
Costco workers have voted to authorize a nationwide strike, with over 85% of Teamsters union members in favor of the move. The vote, which affects more than 18,000 employees across the country, comes as contract negotiations between the union and the retailer have stalled. In a press release, Teamsters Warehouse Division Director Tom Erickson said, “This strike vote is a direct response to Costco’s greed and blatant disregard for the bargaining process. Costco claims to treat workers better than the competition, but right now, it’s failing to live up to that reputation.” (via CNBC)
The current contract is set to expire on January 31. The union is pushing for better wages and benefits, pointing to Costco’s impressive financial success. The company reported $254 billion in revenue and $7.4 billion in net profits. However, the union claims Costco executives are unwilling to offer workers a fair deal.
Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien made it clear that the union’s members won’t tolerate being undervalued. O’Brien said in a statement, “Costco’s greedy executives have less than two weeks to do the right thing. If they refuse, they’ll have no one to blame but themselves when our members go on strike.” The union has been ramping up its efforts with practice pickets across the country in preparation for the possibility of a full-scale strike.
If a strike occurs, it could disrupt Costco’s day-to-day operations. The strike will also damage its reputation as a company that prides itself on treating workers well. The union is urging Costco to come to the table and reach an agreement before the deadline expires.
