BENSENVILLE, IL | In light of Sysco Chicago’s intention to implement productivity standards, Local 710 drivers gathered at the Teamster Horsemen Club yesterday to voice their concerns. 710 Representatives and Stewards discussed what the changes would mean for the drivers, as well as steps that both the Local and IBT are taking to protect Sysco workers here and around the country.

Once Local 710 was made aware of the company’s intent earlier this year, the Local submitted a demand for bargaining over the effects of the productivity standard prior to implementation, and also sent an information request and filed an unfair labor practice charge.

Local 710 Recording Secretary & Business Agent Mike Ramirez and Organizer Mike Lloyd (both former Sysco Chicago drivers themselves) addressed the members along with Stewards Jim Ashby, Sean Rix, Sean Whiteman, and Abel Santacruz.

“We had a great showing of solidarity on Sunday from our Sysco Chicago Drivers, who are always extremely involved in our Union,” said Ramirez. “We explained that the Local and IBT are working hard to ensure that our drivers’ working conditions will be protected. This is an issue that has been spreading around the country, and the Teamsters are prepared to take Sysco head on.”

Local 710 represents more than 200 Sysco Drivers at the distribution center in Des Plaines and domiciled throughout the Chicagoland area.