18,000 unionized Costco workers ready to strike over failed contract talks

Thousands of unionized Costco workers are warning the company that they could walk off the job in less than two weeks if a new contract isn’t reached. Eighty-five percent of workers in the Costco Teamsters union have voted to strike if the retailer and labor group fail to come to an agreement before the current contract expires at the end of the month.

Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien said, “If they refuse, they’ll have no one to blame but themselves when our members go on strike.”

“Our members have spoken loud and clear — Costco must deliver a fair contract, or they’ll be held accountable.”

Statement by Teamsters General President

The union claims Costco rejected its proposal for fair wages and instead presented a deal focused more on company profits than on the needs of employees.

Teamsters point to Costco’s reported net profit of more than $7 billion in 2024 as evidence the company has the financial resources to meet their demands, which include higher pay, better retirement benefits, and changes to holiday and weather policies.

“We drive its success and generate its profits. We hope the company will step up and do right by us, but if they don’t, that’s on them. The company will be striking itself.”

Costco worker in Baltimore, member of Teamsters Local 570

On the other hand, the retailer’s website highlights paid time off, benefits, and rewards as reasons why Costco is a good place to work.

As the contract deadline approaches, unionized employees across the nation are preparing for a potential strike, holding practice rallies from California to New York.

The union said about 18,000 workers are planning to walk out, which could disrupt operations at 56 Costco stores in six states.

Although most Costco employees are not unionized, Teamsters represents about 8% of the company’s 219,000 workforce.

Final contract negotiations between union members and Costco are set to begin Jan. 20.

Costco has not commented on the potential strike.