On Wednesday, the Teamsters announced the conclusion of their prolonged strike, marking a pivotal moment for their members in the state. This newly ratified contract is seen as a safeguard for the drivers who have been at the forefront of the labor dispute.

Breakthru Beverage Group, a prominent North American wholesaler known for its extensive range of wine, spirits, and other beverages, employs over 10,000 people. In Florida alone, their operations span multiple distribution facilities, employing more than 160 members of the Teamsters, including those in Jacksonville. The strike was initiated in response to allegations of unfair labor practices by the company.

Among the participants in this labor action was Jacksonville’s Local 947, a chapter of the Teamsters union, which played a crucial role in the collective effort to secure better working conditions and compensation for its members.

One of Jacksonville’s Teamsters unions, Local 947, took part in the strike.

“This is a classic case of corporate bullying,” said Phil Valera, a Local 947 member and Breakthru driver, during the strike this summer. “Breakthru doesn’t want to reward employees in Florida with the benefits, retirement security, and wages we’ve rightfully earned. The time for drivers to stand strong against this company and its greed is now. We deserve better. We deserve a fair contract.”

The contract ratified Wednesday, according to teamsters, delivers large wage increases, improved paid leave, key union protections and a guaranteed 40-hour work week.

“Breakthru Beverage picked a fight with the wrong union,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “For 400 days, these drivers stood on the line, every single day, and never once backed down. The company tried every dirty trick to divide our members, but they didn’t flinch. They didn’t give in. And today, they’ve won. Let this be a warning: if you try to test the resolve of Teamsters, you will always fail.”

First Coast News reached out to Breakthru Beverage Group for a statement on the deal, but has not yet heard back.

“Winning this strong Teamsters contract is about security, respect, and knowing our hard work truly matters,” said Yuniel Sancillena, a 10-year driver at Breakthru Beverage and member of Local 79. “This victory shows the power of standing together as one union. This is only the beginning!”

Jacksonville is home to two Teamsters unions: Local 512 and Local 947. Teamsters recently successfully negotiated to expedite air-conditioned truck roll-out for Florida UPS delivery drivers and a new collective bargaining agreement for delivery drivers with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.