Delivery drivers at Breakthru Beverage in Virginia Beach have voted overwhelmingly to join Teamsters Local 822, marking the latest in a string of unionization efforts at the national beverage distribution company.
The workers cited a desire for improved wages, safer working conditions, and greater workplace representation as key reasons for organizing.
“Breakthru workers in Virginia Beach know that the best way to secure better wages, safer working conditions, and a voice on the job is with a Teamsters contract,” said James Wright, president of Local 822 and Teamsters International vice-president at-large. “We look forward to fighting alongside them to get these workers the contract they deserve.”
Part of a growing trend at Breakthru
The Virginia Beach win follows similar organizing gains for the union at Breakthru Beverage locations across the U.S. In California, Teamsters secured a first contract after a one-day strike, while negotiations are underway in Florida for 160 workers at six different sites.
Jackson Renager, a Breakthru driver who supported the organizing effort, said the rising cost of living and stagnant wages were motivating factors.
“Everybody’s trying to nickel and dime their workers these days, and it’s hard to get a living wage,” he said. “I have to work two jobs at the moment. No American should be having to work two full-time jobs just to stay afloat.”
Expanding representation in the Tidewater region
Teamsters Local 822 represents over 3,000 workers across the Tidewater area in Virginia, spanning a variety of industries. The union said it expects to continue supporting organizing campaigns in logistics, beverage distribution, and other sectors where workers are seeking improved conditions and collective bargaining power.
