More than 100 unionized workers at Keurig Dr Pepper’s Ottumwa, Iowa, facility have gone on strike, citing stalled contract negotiations and demands for better pay, healthcare, and respect on the job.
Members of Teamsters Local 238 walked off the job Wednesday morning after overwhelmingly rejecting the company’s most recent offer, which they say failed to address core concerns about compensation and treatment in the workplace.
“Teamsters at this company are exhausted from trying to make ends meet while corporate profits soar,” said Jesse Case, secretary-treasurer of Local 238. “When workers feel like they don’t have economic security, then their employer is going to have to pay the price.”
The strike affects production and distribution operations at the beverage plant, which produces a range of Keurig Dr Pepper products. Workers say they will remain on the picket line until a more acceptable offer is made.
‘This is about justice on the job’
Drake Custer, business agent and lead negotiator for the union, said the company can afford to improve conditions for workers.
“Our members have worked hard to make this company successful, and they aren’t asking for anything that’s unreasonable,” said Custer. “Keurig Dr Pepper has plenty of money, they can afford to treat their workforce right. This is about justice on the job.”
The union is demanding improvements to healthcare benefits and workplace treatment as part of the next contract.
Teamsters push for accountability
Teamsters Local 238 represents a diverse group of workers across Iowa and is affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which includes 1.3 million members in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.
As the strike continues, union officials say the focus remains on securing a fair contract that reflects the contributions of the workforce behind the brand’s success.
