Perrigo Teamsters in New York Launch Strike

Local 210 Calls Out Pharmaceutical Manufacturer for Trying to Slash Workers' Benefits

(BRONX, N.Y.) - Members of Teamsters Local 210 are on strike at Perrigo Company's Bronx manufacturing facilities after the employer attempted to eliminate workers' overtime protections and stop contributing to their retirement plan.

"The company is trying to force us to give into their demands, but our members will never accept a bad deal. Teamsters help Perrigo bring in over $100 million every year and must be paid their fair share," said Bobby Bellach, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 210. "We are committed to supporting our members at Perrigo for as long as it takes to secure a fair agreement and we will not be intimidated by their tactics."

"At a time when working-class New Yorkers are struggling to afford this city, Perrigo wants to make it even harder by gutting hard-won overtime protections and retirement security," said Lydia Torres, Vice President of Local 210. "Perrigo plans to expand operations to 24 hours a day, and we welcome that - but not on the backs of our members. This strike is about standing up to ensure every worker can afford to live here and is treated with dignity and fairness, not as disposable labor."

The 190 Teamsters work as compounders, inventory clerks, line operators, mechanics, and technicians for the world's largest manufacturer of private-label, over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and consumer health products.

"Many of us have worked for years at this company and have deep ties to our neighborhood. After decades on the job, we deserve a dignified retirement. This fight is about protecting good New York City jobs and making sure any new jobs the company creates are good jobs as well," said Wilfredo Guzman, chief steward and 23-year Perrigo worker. "We call on Perrigo to do the right thing and come back to the bargaining table to work out a fair agreement for all of us."

Local 210's latest contract with Perrigo expired on Aug. 31. Bargaining is scheduled to resume on Sept. 10. Teamsters will remain on the picket line from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily until an agreement is reached.

Teamsters Local 210 represents thousands of workers across New York and beyond in a wide range of industries. For more information, visit ibtlocal210.org.

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