Attention Costco members: Workers could strike on this upcoming date

Starting February 1, up to 18,000 Costco workers may go on strike as employees push for better pay and working conditions. The current contract for Costco Teamsters is set to expire on January 30, 2025, and earlier this week, 85% of members voted in favor of a strike if a new agreement isn’t reached by the deadline. Information on what stores could be impacted has not been released by the union or company.

In a press release announcing the potential strike, the Teamsters criticized company executives for their “continued failure to bargain constructively and refusal to present a fair contract offer that reflects the company’s record-breaking profits.” They highlighted Costco’s financial growth, noting that since 2018, the company’s profits have surged 135%, reaching $7.4 billion. Workers are demanding a share of these increased earnings.

Deteriorating conditions prompt labor action

For decades, Costco has prided itself on being one of the best employers in large-scale retail, frequently promoting its labor-friendly practices. However, rising inflation has eroded workers’ pay, making the company’s current offerings less satisfactory. This has driven unionized employees to threaten a strike. Tom Erickson, Director of the Teamsters Warehouse Division, addressed the issue, stating, “While Costco claims to treat workers better than the competition [...], it’s failing to live up to that reputation.”

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