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Ascend Drivers Join Teamsters Local 916
![Ascend Cannabis LU916](https://teamster.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Ascend-Cannabis-LU916-1264x1580.png)
Teamsters Expand Prescence at Multi-State Operator
Press Contact: Matt McQuaid Phone: (771) 241-0015 Email: mmcquaid@teamster.org
(BARRY, Ill.) – Cannabis delivery drivers employed by Ascend Wellness Holdings have voted unanimously to join Teamsters Local 916.
“Cannabis delivery drivers are essential to the success of this industry,” said JP Fyans, President of Local 916. “By organizing with the Teamsters, these drivers are paving the way for better wages, improved working conditions, and a collective voice in shaping their future.”
“Delivery drivers play an essential role in cultivating trust and satisfaction among consumers, and they deserve to be treated accordingly,” said Jesse Case, Director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division. “Their decision to join Local 916 reflects our shared commitment to addressing the unique challenges of their industry.”
The victory adds to the Teamsters’ growing presence at Ascend and underscores its commitment to protecting workers in emerging markets – the union won elections at the multistate operator’s facilities in Dwight, Ill. and Aberdeen, Md. within the past year. Cannabis drivers often face unpredictable schedules, safety concerns, and ever-changing regulations, making it more important than ever to ensure fair treatment and protections on the job.
“These drivers work hard every day, and we deserve to be treated with the dignity and respect that all workers should have,” said Nike Flesch, Local 916 Organizer. “What we’re setting into motion is a brighter future for the cannabis industry.”
“I’m proud to be a part of this family,” said Shane Widmer, a driver who voted to join the union. “I’m looking forward to bargaining with Ascend so we can improve the way we are treated, our working conditions and our wages.”
Teamsters Local 916 represents more than 4,000 workers throughout the state of Illinois from Chicago to Carbondale and East Saint Louis to Champaign. For more information, visit teamsters916.org.