Union Strike at Molson Coors Escalates as Negotiations Collapse Over 5 Cents Pay Increase Offer

By John Lopez

Mar 29, 2024 03:22 PM EDT

The union strike at Molson Coors' Fort Worth brewery has escalated after negotiations between the company and members of the union failed over a recent five-cent pay increase offer.

The strike began in late February and shows no signs of easing, with both parties at a deadlock.

Molson Coors Workers Slam 5 Cent Pay Increase Offer

Union members, represented by the Teamsters union, demand higher pay and improved retirement benefits. Despite Molson Coors' initial offer of a 99-cent per hour raise, which the company claims exceeds local market rates, the union rejected the offer as insufficient.

Fox4 News tells us that the union's latest offer of an additional five cents per hour was met with disdain, with its director, Jeff Padellaro, calling it a "total disgrace."

The Fort Worth Brewery, which has more than 500 workers, serves as the sole production facility in the western region for Molson Coors products, including popular brands like Coors Light, Miller Lite, and Blue Moon.

Molson Coors Beverage Co. Reports Company Back In Profit, After Posting Loss Year Ago — SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 13: Coors beer is displayed on a store shelf on February 13, 2024 in San Rafael, California. Molson Coors Beverage Company reported fourth quarter profits of $103.3 million compared to a loss of $590.5 million one year ago.
(Photo : Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

What's Next?

The strike comes amidst a backdrop of financial success for Molson Coors, with the company reporting its highest fourth-quarter earnings since 2005 and announcing a $2 billion stock buyback in October 2023. Tensions continue to rise as workers feel their contributions are not adequately recognized. CEO Gavin Hattersley has earned over $5.1 million in salary since the strike began.

"Molson Coors is a total disgrace," Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien said in a statement.

While Molson Coors' chief communications officer, Adam Collins, expressed disappointment in the union's approach, emphasizing the company's commitment to a fair agreement, the Teamsters remain steadfast in their demands.

With protests planned outside NCAA March Madness events, of which Molson Coors is a major sponsor, the union aims to increase pressure on the company and rally public support for its cause.

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