Headline News
Workers at Avis Budget Group in Florida Join Local 385
On January 29, 2013, by a 15-7 vote, workers at the Avis Budget Group chose to join Local 385 in Orlando, Florida.
There are 27 workers in the bargaining unit, located at Orlando International Airport. The workers are “keyloaders,” the people responsible for making sure vehicles being rented have full tanks of gas, are clean and otherwise ready for customers.
The victory was the workers’ third attempt at forming their union.
“The third time’s a charm,” said Roger Allain, a Business Agent and Organizer with Local 385. “During the previous two campaigns, the company made promises in its attempt to get workers to vote no. The workers are tired of those empty, false promises and they voted to form a union this time so that they will have a strong voice on the job once and for all.”
The workers are seeking fair pay, a workplace where rules don’t constantly change, communication from management and dignity and respect on the job.
Regarding pay, for example, one worker has been on the job for 22 years and earns just $12 an hour, Allain said.
“We will now work hard to negotiate a strong first contract for the workers that will address their many concerns,” said Mike Stapleton, Local 385 President.
Local 385 already represents the service agents at Avis and the rental agents at Budget.