Breakthru Beverage is facing wider disruption as the Teamsters union extends its action at the US distribution group from Florida to operations in six more US states.
Around 700 Teamsters members in Arizona, Delaware, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri and Pennsylvania are refusing to cross the picket line and report to work.
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The workers claim they are not striking and are instead showing solidarity with the 160 drivers at Breakthru locations across Florida who were recently forced to go on strike.
It comes as the company illegally fired workers for union activity and refused to bargain with the Teamsters, who are accusing the beverage company of dragging out negotiations and violating labour laws.
The last offer from the North American beverage wholesaler included pay cuts of $15,000 (£11,154) to $30,000 (£22,309) annually per worker, with no improvements to benefits.
The Florida-based union have been asking the company to offer them the similar wages and benefits that Teamsters at the company’s other locations already receive.
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By GlobalDataA Breakthru Beverage Group spokesperson told Just Drinks: “It is unfortunate that the Northern Florida drivers, represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, have brought a dispute from Florida to other Breakthru markets.”
The spokesperson continued: “We are disappointed by this approach, which violates our local agreements.
“However, we do not expect this to cause disruption to our business in these markets. Our focus remains to deliver uninterrupted service and support our associates, while our Florida team continues to work toward a resolution.”
Teamsters general president Sean M. O’Brien told PR Newswire: “Breakthru Beverage has chosen to learn its lesson the hard way, and that’s a mistake that corporate management must own.”
He added: “Breakthru has broken the law. They are disrespecting the workforce at every turn. But the Teamsters are here to hold them accountable.
“With solidarity at our backs, we will continue to extend picket lines where we can until Breakthru finally chooses to do right by working people.”
