Costco Teamsters authorize strike as contract expires Jan. 31

The Teamsters union, representing 18,000 Costco workers across the nation, has authorized a strike as their contract is set to expire on January 31, 2025. Union leaders assert that Costco has not offered a fair contract in light of its impressive financial performance, including $254 billion in annual revenue and $7. 4 billion in net profits—an increase of 135% since 2018. Workers, particularly fleet drivers from Sumner, are demanding a compensation package that includes increased pay and improved retirement benefits. Robert Campus, a fleet driver and Local 174 member, criticized Costco for prioritizing corporate interests over worker welfare.

Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien warned that the company's executives need to act quickly to avoid a strike. The union has already organized practice pickets to prepare for potential labor action. As of the latest updates, Costco has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the negotiations. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between corporate profitability and worker compensation in the retail sector.