UPS Deal Enhances US Teamsters Leader’s Image as a Tough SOB

The head of the Teamsters union, Sean M. O’Brien, has secured a tentative $30 billion deal with UPS, averting a potential strike that could have disrupted the U.S. economy. The contract, which will be voted on by the union members later this month, is hailed as a “new standard in the labor movement” that “raises the bar for all workers”.

O’Brien, who became the general president of the Teamsters in March 2023, has been described as a “tough SOB” by his supporters and critics alike. He has led a series of aggressive campaigns to improve the wages and working conditions of the union’s 1.4 million members, especially those in the logistics and delivery sectors.

The UPS deal, which covers about 330,000 workers, is one of his biggest achievements so far. It includes a 10% pay raise over five years, a $1,000 bonus for each year of service, improved health care benefits, and more protections against subcontracting and automation. It also preserves the union’s right to strike in case of any disputes with the company.

The deal comes after months of tense negotiations, strike threats, and walkout talks between UPS and the Teamsters. A strike could have started as soon as next week and crippled the U.S. supply chains, as UPS delivers about a quarter of all U.S. packages to their final destination.

O’Brien said he is proud to be called a “tough SOB” if it means fighting for his members and their families. He said he hopes the UPS deal will inspire other workers to join the Teamsters and demand better treatment from their employers.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, deseret.com, cnn.com, msn.com, ups.com, cbsnews.com