Teamsters Ratify Strong Contract Averting Bimbo Bakeries Strike

Bimbo Bakeries workers in New England have narrowly averted a strike, ratifying a new contract with their union, Teamsters Local 170 and Local 633, by an overwhelming 90 percent. The agreement, which covers over 200 sales and warehouse workers, includes significant improvements in pension benefits, wage increases, and reduced health care costs, along with strong job security protections.

The negotiations, which began earlier this month, were tense as Bimbo Bakeries initially refused to offer area standards or real wage adjustments. However, the determination of the workforce, led by shop stewards and union officials, pushed the company to recognize the importance of their contributions.

Shannon R. George, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 170, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Rank-and-file Teamsters never gave up the idea that they deserved better than what they were being offered. Our members were prepared to strike to win what they're worth. Workers have shown Bimbo and all other employers what we can accomplish when we are a united group."

The new six-year agreement is a significant victory for the workers. Jason Morin, a shop steward at Bimbo Bakeries and member of Local 633, expressed his pride in the outcome, saying, "We were tired of management taking for granted the work we do that makes Bimbo so successful. We were ready to strike if needed and are proud that we have secured a powerful new deal."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. This latest agreement is a testament to the union's ability to negotiate strong terms on behalf of its members, ensuring better working conditions and financial security for the Bimbo Bakeries workforce in New England.