On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, attorney Jon Wentz of Wentz, McInerney, Peifer & Petroff, LLC, discussed the ongoing conflict between Teamsters Local 284 and the Sutphen Corporation, a leading fire truck manufacturer based in Columbus, Ohio. The conversation covers the drastic shift in company management and labor relations, the legal and organizational tactics used by the union to fight unfair practices and the impact of a nationwide boycott on both workers and local communities.
Wentz explained how the Sutphen Corporation, after decades of stable labor relations, took an unexpected turn under new leadership. He shared that the company refused to bargain in good faith and introduced regressive contract proposals aimed at stripping workers of key rights and benefits, creating a hostile climate for its unionized workforce.
Teamsters Local 284, represented by Wentz, responded by filing unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board. Despite a settlement requiring good-faith negotiations, the company doubled down by reintroducing anti-union proposals and further escalating tensions, prompting new legal action and setting the stage for a future NLRB trial.
With negotiations at a standstill, the Teamsters and the International Association of Fire Fighters have called for a national boycott of Sutphen products. Wentz describes how cities like Columbus have already canceled orders in solidarity and highlights the growing support from elected officials and the public, who don’t want taxpayer money to support unfair labor practices.
To get the full story and hear more from Wentz, tune in to this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast!