The union representing UPS workers has issued a warning, stating that a strike is inevitable if the company does not present a significantly improved financial offer by Friday. The Teamsters union, which represents approximately 340,000 UPS workers, has been engaged in negotiations for a new contract with the company for several months. However, talks have reached an impasse, with the labor union deeming UPS’ latest pay counteroffer as “insulting.”
In response, the Teamsters union set a deadline of Friday, June 30 for UPS to bring its “last, best, and final offer” to the negotiating table. This ultimatum increases the pressure on both parties involved, as it could potentially lead to the largest single-company strike in U.S. history. The union condemned the company’s lack of desire to reward and fairly compensate its workers for their labor and sacrifices.
In a statement, UPS asserted that it has improved upon its initial offer and remains open to negotiation. The company emphasized that reaching a consensus requires time, detailed discussion, and compromises from both sides.
Practice pickets forming
Earlier this month, UPS workers voted overwhelmingly in favor of going on strike if an agreement is not ratified by August 1. The deadline of June 30 is intended to allow members enough time to ratify the contract, as the majority of workers must approve it for it to take effect.
A spokesperson for the national union, Kara Deniz, expressed the union’s desire to have a contract in place by August 1 that offers higher wages. Various local leaderships, including Boston, Des Moines, Iowa, and Warwick, Rhode Island, have already started organizing practice pickets and exerting pressure on the company.
During an organizing call on Wednesday, a local leader stated, “If UPS wants to make 1997 style offers, it should be prepared for a 1997 style strike.”
Standstill on pay raises
While the two sides have reached agreements on non-economic matters, such as the installation of air conditioning in UPS delivery vehicles, compensation remains a major point of contention. The union is seeking substantial raises and increased company contributions to the benefits fund.
According to union leadership, UPS is aiming for a contract that keeps overall labor costs unchanged. This means that if workers want higher wages, they will need to make concessions in other areas. The company chose not to comment on the specifics of its current offers.
The starting pay for UPS workers is approximately $15 per hour and can rise to $38 for long-term employees. However, recently hired employees have a lower pay cap.
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