On Wednesday, Teamsters announced a significant victory for their members in Florida, as they successfully ratified a groundbreaking contract that promises increased wages and vital union protections.
FLORIDA, USA — After enduring 400 days of striking across the state, Teamsters union members in Florida have achieved a significant milestone by securing their inaugural contract with Breakthru Beverage.
This week, the Teamsters proudly declared that their Florida members emerged victorious from their strike, as they finalized a contract designed to safeguard and compensate drivers more effectively.
Breakthru Beverage Group, known as a major North American distributor of wine, spirits, and other beverages, boasts a workforce of over 10,000 employees. In Florida, the company operates several distribution centers, employing over 160 Teamsters members, including those in Jacksonville. These workers initiated the strike in response to alleged unfair labor practices by the company.
The Teamsters union in Jacksonville, Local 947, was actively involved in the strike efforts.
During the summer strike, Phil Valera, a member of Local 947 and a driver for Breakthru, voiced his concerns, stating, “This is a classic case of corporate bullying. Breakthru is unwilling to provide Florida employees with the benefits, retirement security, and wages we’ve rightfully earned. It’s time for drivers to stand firm against this company’s greed. We deserve better. We deserve a fair contract.”
The contract ratified Wednesday, according to teamsters, delivers large wage increases, improved paid leave, key union protections and a guaranteed 40-hour work week.
“Breakthru Beverage picked a fight with the wrong union,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “For 400 days, these drivers stood on the line, every single day, and never once backed down. The company tried every dirty trick to divide our members, but they didn’t flinch. They didn’t give in. And today, they’ve won. Let this be a warning: if you try to test the resolve of Teamsters, you will always fail.”
First Coast News reached out to Breakthru Beverage Group for a statement on the deal, but has not yet heard back.
“Winning this strong Teamsters contract is about security, respect, and knowing our hard work truly matters,” said Yuniel Sancillena, a 10-year driver at Breakthru Beverage and member of Local 79. “This victory shows the power of standing together as one union. This is only the beginning!”
Jacksonville is home to two Teamsters unions: Local 512 and Local 947. Teamsters recently successfully negotiated to expedite air-conditioned truck roll-out for Florida UPS delivery drivers and a new collective bargaining agreement for delivery drivers with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.
