AMARILLO, TEXAS — Teamsters Local 577 ratified a four-year agreement with Tyson Foods at its Amarillo, Texas beef plant on July 2 with a 93% margin vote.
“This victory is what Texas Teamsters are all about — coming together as one so we can fight for a better life for ourselves and our families,” said Al Brito, president of Local 577.
Tyson Foods provided a statement to MEAT+POULTRY regarding its agreement with the Teamsters.
"We are pleased to have reached an agreement with the Teamsters Local 577 that continues to provide a competitive pay and benefits package for our Amarillo team members," A Tyson spokesperson said. "The agreement reflects our dedication and continued investment in our team members and the Amarillo community."
The union stated the new contract includes a 32% wage increase, more paid time off and expanded retirement benefits.
Some wage details from KAMR/KCIT include:
- $4 per hour raises during year one including retroactive pay back since the expiration of the previous contract
- $5 per hour raise for production heavy skills
- $4.50 per hour raise for maintenance levels of 7 and up
- The union pointed out there would be $0.50 raise in year two, a $0.70 raise in year three and a $0.90 raise in year four.
Ratification bonuses were also noted depending on time in the union:
- Between 90 days and one year – $250
- Between one year and four years – $500
- Between five years and 10 years – $750
- Greater than 10 years – $1,000
Other benefits negotiated between the union and Tyson include enhanced 401 (k) benefits for eligible workers, effective January 1, 2026. Health benefits would also start on the first day of regular employment.
“If you work in one of the most dangerous industries in the nation, you should be able to support your family and look forward to retirement,” said Jesse Case, director of the Teamsters Food Processing Division. “Teamster strength is critical for working families in the meatpacking industry.”
On June 27, the union voted to authorize a strike with demands for higher wages and improved benefits for 3,100 union employees at the Amarillo facility.
The union reported a 98% margin vote to authorize a strike. Negotiations between the two sides continued even after the strike authorization.
In August 2022, Tyson Foods provided details on an expansion and upgrade of operations at the Amarillo plant. At the time, the facility employed 4,000 workers with an annual payroll of $180 million.
The story was updated with comments from Tyson Foods.
