TEAMSTERS AT UNFI HOLD PRACTICE PICKETS

Drivers and Warehouse Workers Demand Fair Contracts, Warn of Potential Disruptions

WASHINGTON, March 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hundreds of Teamsters at United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) held practice pickets today in Florida, Georgia, and Illinois, demanding fair first contracts that recognize their crucial role in the company's success.

"UNFI Teamsters have waited long enough for the contracts they deserve," said Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division. "This company is playing games with workers' livelihoods, and Teamsters won't stand for it. If UNFI thinks it can keep stalling, it's in for a rude awakening. Our members are united, they're fed up, and they're ready to do whatever it takes to win what they deserve."

In the past year alone, more than 1,000 UNFI drivers and warehouse workers have voted overwhelmingly to join the Teamsters. Since 2022, over 2,500 workers have organized with the union, bringing the total Teamsters membership at UNFI to more than 5,000. Yet, the company continues to stall negotiations and refuses to bargain in good faith.

"We organized with the Teamsters to win the fair pay, benefits, and respect we deserve, but UNFI keeps dragging its feet," said Brad Duncan, a warehouse worker at UNFI and a member of Local 26 in Urbana, Ill. "We are fed up. It's time for management to get serious and bring a real offer to the table, or we'll do whatever it takes to win."  

As the primary distributor for Whole Foods in the U.S., UNFI risks major disruptions if it continues delaying contract talks. More than 1,250 workers nationwide are prepared to escalate their actions if the company fails to deliver.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on X @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

Contact:
Colin McCullough, (856) 625-6856
[email protected]

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SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters