Teamsters, Anheuser-Busch reach tentative deal to avoid strike

Anheuser-Busch and the Teamsters union reached a tentative agreement Wednesday to avert a potential strike.

Budweiser Brewery and the Teamsters each announced tentative five-year agreements on Wednesday, which the unions say will provide “significant” wage increases, improved health care and retirement benefits, and unions across the country. 5,000 employees will receive job security. The union had threatened to go on strike if a new five-year agreement was not reached by Thursday at 11:59 p.m. ET.

The Teamsters said there will be an $8 hourly wage increase, including a $4 hourly raise in the first year of the agreement.

“Teamsters make beer, Teamsters make Anheuser-Busch successful, and our members deserve the best contract. That’s what we fought for and won today,” Teamsters General President said Sean O’Brien. stated in a statement.

“Anheuser-Busch knew that our members were serious and prepared to do whatever it took to get a fair agreement. “We have reached an agreement that sets new high standards,” he added.

The tentative agreement also includes a $2,500 recognition bonus for each member, increased paid time off, and reinstatement of severance benefits for active and retired members.

The Teamsters said the agreement will be shared with member states ahead of a ratification vote scheduled for next week. Anheuser-Busch said the agreement affects union employees at 12 breweries across the country.

“At Anheuser-Busch, we have said many times that our people are our greatest strength, and while we continue to recognize the talent, dedication, and hard work of our team, we have reached a tentative agreement to maintain our positions. We are very pleased with this decision,” said Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth. stated in a statement.

“As America’s leading beer company, we have the best people and the best jobs in the beer industry, and together we are committed to brewing great beer for everyone. , emerging at key moments for consumers and positively impacting communities across the country,” he added.