Local 812 members became worried when they learned about Liberty Coca-Cola’s plans to outsource loading operations at its Bronx warehouse. Knowing they had a big problem on their hands, Shop Steward Tommy Zinnanti immediately reached out to the Local 812 Executive Board for help.
Coke's actions could have led to the loss of up to ten Local 812 jobs.
Local 812 President Joe Vitta explained, “This was clearly a violation of our union contract. We met with the company as soon as possible. Our top priority is preserving and protecting Local 812 jobs.”
Working together, the union and company came up with a solution that works for everyone. Instead of outsourcing the work, the company moved warehouse operations to their Staten Island facility, which had been empty. Staten Island is now the main hub and the work has doubled from what it previously was.
Shop Steward Zinnanti, who has been an 812 member for 19 years said, “We went from losing work to gaining work. We’ve been given more duties. As a result, not only do our members have greater job security, the company is looking to create additional jobs to handle the increased workload. Local 812 President Joe Vitta and Secretary-Treasurer John Visconti backed us up 100%. It shows you how important it is to have a strong union.”
