A group of workers employed at the Sysco distribution center in Kent, WA have voted unanimously to join Teamsters Local 117. The 12 workers, who play a role in various aspects of the logistical operations at the facility, will join a unit of approximately 275 drivers and warehouse workers who are members of the union. The newly organized group voted to become Teamsters in an NLRB election on November 5.

“Organized worker power at Sysco continues to grow in the Pacific Northwest and across the country,” said Paul Dascher, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters 117. “Despite the company’s cynical efforts to stifle their voice, these workers courageously stood together and demanded Teamsters representation and respect. I want to congratulate them and welcome them to our Union.”

With this vote, a range of additional classifications will now be represented by Local 117, including driver check-in associates, QA inspectors, inventory control and cycle counter associates, recoup specialists, and will call associates. The workers sought a voice with the union a few months ago, citing the need for family wages, workplace protections, and retirement security.

“As an inventory control associate, my team and I make sure quality ingredients and products are available to our customers,” said Krystal Miller-Parker, who has worked at Sysco for 7 years. “During my time at Sysco, my coworkers and I felt left out. Joining Teamsters 117 will bring us together with our driver and warehouse siblings. Together we will have a stronger voice.”

Longstanding Teamsters at Sysco showed strong solidarity with their unorganized co-workers during the unionization process. “I spoke to people one-on-one, and they were all for it,” said Will Buff, a 20-year warehouse worker, who serves on the union’s Executive Board and helped with the organizing drive. “You know our group at Sysco – we want to grow our union. It’s about enhancing people’s lives. Whether it’s getting better medical, higher pay, or a secure retirement – we want to succeed, but we also want others to succeed. The union life is the only life. It’s our job to improve the world.”

After overcoming the company’s repeated attempts to undermine their union, the workers expressed excitement about becoming Teamsters. “As a cycle counter, we make sure our inventory is correct and readily available for our customers,” said Wendy Flores, who has been with the company for a little over a year. “Forming our union with Teamsters 117 was uplifting and has built solidarity among my coworkers. I work hard every day and joining Teamsters 117 will bring dignity to our work.”