UPDATE: Breakthru members went ON STRIKE as of 10:00pm on June 13, 2022

CICERO, IL | The Teamsters Local 710 Bargaining Committee for Breakthru Beverage met earlier today to resume negotiations with the Company following the overwhelming rejection of the tentative agreement on April 29.

The Union presented a proposal focusing on serious issues that were not adequately addressed in the tentative agreement that fueled the rejection. Those issues involve a lack of safety on the job, increasing load sizes, the inability of members to use their earned personal time, and retirement benefits. The Company’s response failed to address these issues in any meaningful way, and the parties broke without agreement.

“The members have made it perfectly clear why they voted no, and our committee is working to get a fair contract where those issues are addressed,” said Secretary-Treasurer Mike Cales. “The employer barely acknowledges these issues seems tone deaf to the frustration of their employees, even with a strike authorization and a huge ‘no’ vote staring them in the face.”

The Union terminated the extension agreement that was in place, which will expire at midnight tonight. The members have authorized the Union to call a strike if necessary, and strike benefits have already been approved through the Local Executive Board, Joint Council 25, and the International Union.

Members are directed to report to work until further notice.
UPDATE: Breakthru members went ON STRIKE as of 10:00pm on June 13, 2022