Anheuser-Busch, Teamsters Reach Labor Deal, Avoid U.S. Strike

Budweiser brewer Anheuser-Busch has reached a contract agreement with the Teamsters union that avoids a strike at its US plants, according to a report by Dee-Ann Durbin for the Associated Press (AP).

The two sides said they had reached a tentative agreement that boosts wages and increases vacation days and pension contributions. I Photo: Teamsters Facebook

The union had threatened a strike at the brewer’s 12 US plants if an agreement on a new five-year contract wasn’t reached by 11:59 p.m. EST Thursday.

The Teamsters union represents 5,000 Anheuser-Busch workers who brew and package beer and even take care of the company’s legendary Clydesdale horses. However, the two sides said they had reached a tentative agreement that boosts wages and increases vacation days and pension contributions.

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

Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth said the contract also makes significant job security commitments.

“Our people are our greatest strength, and we are incredibly pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that continues to recognize the talent, dedication, and hard work of our teams, while also positioning the company for long-term success,” Whitworth said.

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