Teamsters president throws down gauntlet to UPS: Strike coming in 2028

The Teamsters union, which represents 330,000 drivers and package handlers for United Parcel Service (UPS), is threatening to strike in 2028 if the company does not meet their demands for better terms. President Sean O’Brien of the Teamsters has been broadcasting a series of podcasts, warning UPS that rank-and-file members will walk off the job if necessary.

The union is prepared to strike over issues such as proposed reductions in health and pension benefits, the use of autonomous trucks, and the outsourcing of last-mile delivery and supply chain functions to non-union subsidiaries. O’Brien emphasized that the union would strike mid-contract if negotiations remain deadlocked, a move that has not been seen before.

He also criticized the company's CEO, Carol Tomé, accusing her of being out of touch with workers' needs and focusing solely on profit. UPS delivers over 16 million packages daily and is a significant contributor to U.S. GDP, so a strike could have major economic consequences. The union's aggressive stance marks a shift in labor-employer relations, with the contract renewal in 2028 providing a unique opportunity for confrontation.