ST. LOUIS — The threat of a strike among Anheuser-Busch's union members has officially ended after the St. Louis-based brewer announced the finalization of a five-year national agreement Tuesday night.
"This new five-year collective bargaining agreement builds on our existing industry-leading package of wages, healthcare, and retirement benefits, along with job security provisions for employees at our 12 major U.S. breweries," an Anheuser-Busch spokesperson said.
Teamsters tentatively agreed to the contract on Feb. 28, but a formal vote was passed Wednesday night.
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Around 99% of Teamsters at the brewer's locations previously authorized a strike last December, citing a lack of improved wages, job protection, secure healthcare and retirement benefits. The union said the new agreement amends the majority of its concerns, including:
- Significant job security for all 5,000 Teamsters at Anheuser-Busch.
- Wage increases of $8/hour, including an immediate $4/hour raise in the first year.
- $2,500 ratification bonus for every union member.
- The same healthcare coverage options for all union workers.
- Increased pension contributions and benefits.
- Increased maximum vacation accrual.
- Restoration of retirement benefits for active and retired members.
"At Anheuser-Busch, our people are our top priority, and we’re pleased that our Teamster-represented brewery employees have officially ratified our new agreement that continues to recognize and reward our teams while also positioning the company for long-term success," a brewer spokesperson said.
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