On today’s Thanksgiving Day episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery and Soft Drink Conference, discussed the extraordinary battle for a first contract at Breakthru Beverage facilities across Florida.
Padellaro began by outlining the lengthy and challenging process of organizing five Breakthru Beverage locations in Florida. After workers voted to unionize, negotiations progressed until the company refused to offer fair economic terms, including an attempt to cut wages. In response, the Teamsters initiated a strike with near-unanimous member support. Padellaro detailed how the union’s structure, enhanced strike benefits and strong leadership enabled families to withstand more than four months on the picket line, uniting workers in the face of adversity. In total, from the union ratification vote to the initial negotiations, strike and subsequent contract ratification, the battle lasted 400 days.
A central theme emphasized by Padellaro was the employer’s use of classic union-busting tactics. Breakthru Beverage attempted to divide workers by offering special deals to select individuals who crossed picket lines and retaliated against strike leaders by terminating their employment, according to Padellaro. The company also threatened to replace union members en masse. Despite these efforts, Teamsters leadership coordinated legal strategies, extended picket lines and maintained nationwide solidarity, ultimately outlasting the company’s aggressive stance.
The successful outcome is a testament to union power and perseverance, Padellaro said. Workers secured a contract with significant wage increases, seniority protections and improvements to benefits, including paid leave and a strengthened 401(k) plan. Padellaro emphasized that the fight was motivated by a desire for fair treatment and respect on the job, especially as the company was making record profits. He encouraged others facing similar struggles to reach out for union support and highlighted the importance of unity in securing workplace justice.
For more on the 400-day battle between Teamsters and Breakthru Beverage, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast.