FLORIDA TEAMSTERS AT SOUTHERN GLAZER'S WINE & SPIRITS WIN FIRST CONTRACT

Local 79 Members Secure Better Pay, Benefits, and Protections

LAKELAND, Fla., July 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 270 warehouse workers at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits in Lakeland, Fla., represented by Teamsters Local 79, have overwhelmingly ratified their first collective bargaining agreement.

"This is a classic example of how the Teamsters can produce landslide organizing victories, and more importantly, industry-leading labor contracts," said John Sholtes, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 79. "We are proud of how our fellow Teamsters have fought to improve their jobs and to help change their lives for the better."

"This contract shows what can be achieved when workers come together with a collective union voice," said Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference. "Our newest Teamsters members fought hard and have a contract they can be proud of."

The workers secured a four-year agreement with significant improvements, including increased wages, comprehensive medical benefits, seniority rights, a pension, and additional paid leave.

"We became Teamsters so that we can fight for better wages and a better life for our families," said Curtis McCoy, a member of Local 79. "We help make Southern Glazer's what it is, and now we have a contract that gives us what we deserve."

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.

Contact: 
Maura Drumm, (215) 510-3735
[email protected] 

SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters