(SAN DIEGO) – The Costco Teamsters National Negotiating Committee has concluded its third week of bargaining with the company. Some progress was made on seniority rights, the role of shop stewards, and other critical provisions. However, Costco has yet to propose an economic package that reflects its record-breaking profits or includes increased retirement benefits.
“We’ve made some strides at the table this week, but we remain far apart on economic issues,” said Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division. “Our goal is to secure a fair tentative agreement, but if Costco continues to ignore the value of our members’ labor, we are prepared to strike to win what they deserve.”
The National Negotiating Committee presented a comprehensive economic proposal two weeks ago, but Costco has yet to respond with a meaningful counteroffer addressing higher wages, improved retirement benefits, bereavement policies, holidays, or inclement weather provisions.
“Costco’s record-breaking profits are built on our hard work,” said Lance Knowles, a worker at Costco in New Jersey and a member of Local 210. “If Costco wants to call itself a ‘’pro-worker’ company, it’s time to prove it at the bargaining table. They can more than afford the wages we’re asking for, and we’re ready to strike if they refuse to deliver.”
Next week, Costco Teamsters will vote on a strike authorization and hold practice pickets at locations nationwide. The final round of negotiations will take place near Costco’s corporate headquarters in Issaquah, Washington, beginning January 20.
The Costco National Master Agreement expires on January 31 and covers over 18,000 Teamsters nationwide. Despite announcing record-breaking profits of $7.4 billion in 2024 – a 135 percent increase from 2018 – Costco has failed to offer wages and benefits that reflect its historical financial success. Workers are demanding the strongest possible contract and will be forced to strike if a fair contract is not presented by the contract deadline.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and “like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.
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