HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Contract negotiations between UPS and the Teamsters have broken down, raising the possibility of a nationwide strike that could have devastating consequences for Hawaii’s local economy. With just three weeks until the contract expires, talks reached an impasse, and both sides are now pointing fingers.
The 340,000 UPS workers involved in the negotiations are inching closer to a strike that could go down in history as one of the largest in the United States. This potential strike has the potential to disrupt Hawaii’s economy significantly.
One retired UPS driver, 54-year-old Cameron Datanagan, who spent over 32 years with the company, remembers the last UPS strike in 1997. He walked the picket lines for two and a half weeks without any pay, struggling to make ends meet. Now, as rumors of another strike circulate, Datanagan is concerned about the impact on his former colleagues and customers.
The Hawaii Teamsters, which represents approximately 600 UPS members in the state, are gearing up for a potential strike. They are preparing to hold informational pickets to raise awareness and garner support.
Kevin K. Holu, president and principal officer of the Hawaii Teamsters & Allied Workers, Local 996, stated, “As we just ended a strike on Hawaii Gas, Teamsters prepare to take the same stance to support our hard-working members of UPS, which is to stand against corporate greed.”
Businesses are already bracing for the potential strike. Tina Yamaki, president of the Retail Merchants of Hawaii, warned that a strike would likely cause delays in package deliveries. Additionally, Yamaki noted that even after the contracts are settled, prices could increase as someone has to bear the cost of the new agreement.
Supply-chain experts also warn of potential disruptions. Nick Vyas of the Global Supply Chain Institute at USC emphasized the devastating impact a prolonged strike could have on the summer season, back-to-school period, and upcoming holidays.
Amidst the blame game between the Teamsters and UPS, both parties accuse each other of walking away from the negotiating table.
Sean O’Brien, Teamsters general president, urged UPS to find a resolution, stating, “If we don’t get a deal done and we don’t have a contract on July 31 at 12:01 a.m., then UPS chose to strike themselves.”
However, UPS defended their position, claiming that the Teamsters had stopped negotiating despite “historic proposals that build on our industry-leading pay.”
As the discussions hang in the balance, Datanagan, the retired UPS driver, expressed his hope for a resolution, recognizing the impact a strike would have on both his former co-workers and customers. He said, “I hope and pray that it’s not going to happen. Customers are our family.”
With the contract deadline looming, it remains uncertain whether an agreement can be reached to avert a nationwide strike. The potential strike would have significant implications for UPS workers, businesses, and Hawaii’s local economy.
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