JOLIET, Ill. — More than 190 Teamsters at Top 100 retailer Ikea U.S.‘s distribution center here went on strike this month after contract negotiations reached an impasse.
The warehouse workers, represented by Teamsters Local 179, are demanding higher wages, improved working conditions and protections against automation.
“Ikea reported more than $1.7 billion in profits last year, but the wages this company is offering its workers are disgraceful,” said Chris Richter, president of Local 179. “Our members are on the picket line because they refuse to let a multibillion-dollar corporation shortchange the people who make its success possible. Ikea can afford to pay these workers fairly, and we will stay out here until it does.”…