Breakthru Beverage Workers in St. Louis Launch ULP Strike

Source: Teamsters

2026.05.08

Drivers and Warehouse Workers Demand End to Company’s Unfair Labor Practices

(ST. LOUIS) – More than 100 drivers and warehouse workers have walked off the job and launched an unfair labor practice (ULP) strike at Breakthru Beverage in St. Louis. The members of Teamster Locals 600 and 688 are demanding the company come to the table to negotiate a fair contract without illegal regressive proposals and surface bargaining.

“This company has been dragging their feet and refusing to put a fair agreement on the table,” said Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference. “Our members don’t want to strike, but Breakthru has given them no choice. Teamsters nationwide are on alert and ready to support their brothers and sisters in St. Louis and Cicero.”

Like their Breakthru brothers and sisters in Cicero, Ill., management is demanding that members waive their lawful right to not cross or work behind a Teamsters picket line at their work location. The union will never agree to a contract that fails to include this critical protection.

“Our members are united because they know their worth,” said Chris Tongay, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 688. “These workers show up every single day and help drive this company’s success. They deserve fair wages, strong protections, and a contract that reflects the standards Teamsters have fought to build. We will support our members for as long as it takes.”



Read more: https://teamster.org/2026/05/breakthru-beverage-workers-in-st-louis-launch-ulp-strike/