Press Releases
Teamsters at Sysco Portland Authorize Strike
Over 270 Drivers, Mechanics, and Warehouse Workers Demand Fair Contract
Press Contact: Lena Melentijevic Phone: (347) 208-2279 Email: LMelentijevic@teamster.org
(PORTLAND) – Teamsters at Sysco Portland have voted by a 99.5 percent margin to authorize a strike if the multibillion-dollar company fails to present an acceptable contract offer. More than 270 drivers, mechanics, and warehouse workers are demanding an agreement with wages, benefits, and working conditions that match the strong gains other Teamsters at Sysco have won nationwide.
“Our members work hard for this company and will not accept anything less than a contract that rewards their dedication,” said Mark Davison, President of Teamsters Local 162 and Teamsters Western Region International Vice President. “It is time for Sysco management to come to the table with a fair contract, or our members are ready to walk.”
Sysco is one of the largest and most profitable food service providers in the United States. In 2024 alone, the company reported $1.95 billion in net profits, a jump of more than 10 percent from the year before. The strike authorization vote empowers Local 162 to call a work stoppage at any time once the contract expires on Saturday, Oct. 11.
The Teamsters represent more than 10,000 Sysco workers nationwide. In recent years, the Teamsters have been forced to launch multiple major strikes after Sysco refused to bargain in good faith. In 2023, Sysco forced Teamsters in Indianapolis and Louisville to strike after failing to present a fair contract. The strike saw picket lines extended to over 1,000 Sysco Teamsters nationwide and ended in record-breaking contracts.
“Sysco should be on notice: our members are prepared to strike if this company refuses to deliver,” said Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division. “If Sysco tries to shortchange hardworking Teamsters, we will be on the picket line, and they will face the full strength of thousands of Sysco Teamsters nationwide.”
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 X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.