MOKENA, IL | On Sunday following the General Membership Meeting, Teamsters Local 710 Sysco Chicago Drivers met to review their tentative agreement and conduct a ratification vote. The contract was overwhelmingly voted down, 121 to 34, which also included an approved strike authorization.

Members passionately voiced the reasons why they rejected the contract and what they would need to ratify an agreement, most of which revolved heavily around uncertainty caused by their employer regarding job security, protections, and attempting to divide the workforce.

“A very solid message has been sent to Sysco, and I appreciate all of the dialogue we had on Sunday,” said Secretary-Treasurer Mike Cales. “It is extremely clear that our members have a serious distrust with Sysco management, and that what was offered in this agreement doesn’t solve enough of the problems they have with their employer. Our Bargaining Committee is fully prepared to return to the table to fight for all of our Drivers at Sysco, and we all stand united.”

Local 710 has been in contact with Sysco following the vote, and the parties will reconvene negotiations on April 8. Drivers are instructed to continue working as directed until further notice.