DHL Express Implements Contingency Plans Amid Unionized Workers’ Contract Demands
As contract negotiations between DHL Express and the Teamsters union intensify at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), DHL has activated contingency measures to ensure package delivery continuity in case of a potential strike by ramp and tug workers. The Teamsters, representing over 1,100 DHL employees at CVG, recently authorized a work stoppage if demands for improved pay, safety conditions, and an end to alleged unfair labor practices are not met.
DHL Express is proactively securing supplemental staff at CVG and temporarily rerouting flights and volume away from its hub to regional terminals across the Americas. This strategic move aims to prevent shipping delays. The parcel logistics unit of Germany’s Deutsche Post Group reassures customers of maintaining high delivery standards during the critical peak period, expressing confidence in avoiding service disruptions.
Unionized workers, who joined Teamsters Local 100 in April, have been negotiating their first contract since July. The union accuses DHL management of slow progress and deems their proposals as “insulting.” Safety concerns, including inadequate lighting, faded striping, and faulty equipment, have been raised by the union. An online petition highlights issues such as poor equipment maintenance, violations of safety policies, and insufficient communication tools.
Amidst the negotiations, the National Labor Relations Board is pursuing claims of harassment, intimidation, and retaliation. Allegations include threats of termination for wearing union insignia, surveillance of workers engaging with union organizers, and dismissal of employees involved in organizing efforts. The situation underscores the complex dynamics in labor relations as both sides seek resolution.
Teamsters Union Signals Potential Strike as DHL Workers Demand Better Wages and Safer Conditions
Amid contract negotiations with DHL, members of the Teamsters union, representing over 6,000 DHL workers nationwide, have expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s perceived stalling tactics. The union’s president, Bill Davis, emphasized members’ preparedness to walk, citing DHL’s alleged denial of fair wages and safe working conditions. The sentiment of discontent raises the possibility of a broader solidarity strike by Teamsters across the country in support of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) team.
Labor unions in the U.S. are leveraging their strengthened position, fueled by pandemic-induced labor shortages and a pro-labor administration in Washington. Notable successes include the Teamsters securing significant pay increases and vehicle upgrades for 340,000 UPS part- and full-time workers, averting a potential strike. Strikes by autoworkers and Hollywood writers also achieved substantial goals. Workers in various sectors, including airline pilots, railroad employees, and West Coast longshoremen, have witnessed substantial increases in pay and benefits over the past year.
“Teamsters President Targets Amazon Unionization Efforts Following DHL Dispute
Teamsters President Sean O’Brien has shifted focus to organizing workers at Amazon after a year-long campaign by ground workers at Amazon Air’s CVG superhub to form a union. Workers have cited lower wages compared to their DHL counterparts, advocating for a $30 per hour wage and improved health benefits. Simultaneously, Amazon’s West Coast air hub workers are demanding a $25 starting wage. While ongoing negotiations between DHL and Teamsters at CVG are scheduled to continue, DHL remains committed to finding constructive solutions at the bargaining table. The company anticipates returning to negotiations in January.
