VICTORVILLE – Members of Teamsters Local 896 at Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) announced May 8, that they are striking over unfair labor practices (ULPs). 

Over 150 workers said they are fighting for better wages, a stronger pension, and to recoup an unpaid arbitration award.

“KDP was ordered to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars last year after it unlawfully attempted to end its sick time policy, but these members still haven’t seen a dime,” said Local 896 Secretary-Treasurer Phil Cooper. 

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has faced multiple legal challenges related to its employee policies, particularly concerning wage practices.

Cooper goes on to say that the unpaid award is a blatant violation of federal law, and they will be out every day, 24 hours a day, until KDP pays its workers what they are legally owed.

Teamsters strike in Iowa resulted in 8% wage increase

Local 896 stated that KDP’s actions, which they believe violate labor laws, are occurring amid ongoing negotiations for a new contract.

Teamsters rejected KDP’s second offer last weekend, stating it included only negligible increases in pay and pension benefits.

The ULP strike in Victorville follows a strike at KDP in Ottumwa, Iowa, where Teamsters secured a pay boost and more affordable health care coverage.

Their new three-year collective bargaining agreement enrolls workers into a Teamsters health insurance plan and also includes guaranteed paid time off and an 8% wage increase in the first year of the contract, with additional wage increases every year thereafter.

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