CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Members of Teamsters Local 175 have authorized a strike after rejecting what’s described as a final settlement off for a née contract Coca Cola Consolidated.
The vote came Saturday. The contract, which is scheduled to expire Sunday, covers 100 workers in Charleston and Logan areas.
The two sides had a dispute three years ago, but eventually reached an agreement about work staying local and not using outside companies.
“The members were very patient and worked hard to protect their work to which the Company ultimately agreed. Now the Company is attempting to back out of what was confirmed three years ago,” Local 175 President Steve Day said. “It’s like Groundhog Day; every three years we must fight just to keep what we have. The Union worked hard to address legitimate operational issues brought up by the Company, however, its proposal to do away with work protection is punitive and only an attempt to add to its bottom line, off the back of our members. These members sent a strong message today that corporate greed will not be allowed from the members here at Coca-Cola.”
Teamsters Local 175 also covers another 100 workers who work for Coca-Cola Consolidated in other areas of the state under a separate contract.
Coca Cola Consolidated provided this statement to MetroNews Sunday morning.
“We’re disappointed the union decided to take our teammates out on strike, but we remain committed to working with them on an equitable resolution. Any assertion to the contrary is inaccurate. We care deeply about our West Virginia teammates, and we’re dedicated to strengthening the communities where they live and work.”