FOREST PARK, Ga. — CDL drivers at Kroger’s Forest Park fulfillment facility have voted decisively to join Teamsters Local 528, marking a significant step towards improving their working conditions and securing better wages and retirement benefits. The drivers voted by a 96 percent margin in favor of unionizing, seeking a stronger voice on the job.
“Our wages, benefits, and working conditions have been eroding for too long and it was time to take a stand together,” said Marion Jackson, a CDL driver at Kroger and new member of Local 528. He emphasized that joining the Teamsters would ensure they secure a strong union contract through the backing of North America’s most powerful union.
This group of 30 drivers is the second unit of Kroger fulfillment center drivers to join the Teamsters, following a similar move by over 289 drivers in Romulus, Michigan, earlier this year in May.
“We are proud to welcome our new Kroger CDL drivers into Local 528,” said Kip Cortez, a business agent at Local 528. Cortez reiterated the union’s commitment to securing a strong contract that accurately reflects the drivers’ dedication and hard work. He also acknowledged the crucial support from the Teamsters Warehouse Division and the Teamsters Organizing Department in achieving this outcome.
Tom Erickson, Teamsters Central Region Vice President and Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, called the unionization a “huge victory” that further strengthens the collective power of Teamsters at Kroger. “We will continue to expand our ranks and fight for strong contracts that protect better futures for our members and their families,” Erickson added.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, represents 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.