2021 Frito-Lay strike

– Background:
– Frito-Lay has a contract with Local 218 BCTGM union in Topeka, Kansas.
– The warehouse employs 700-800 workers, with 600 union members.
– Contract negotiations occur every two years.
– Recent negotiations failed, leading to a work stoppage.
– Union rejected a contract recommended by its leadership.

– Strike:
– Started on July 5, 2021, with 600 BCTGM members striking.
– Represented 80% of the Topeka plant’s workforce.
– First strike by Local 218 BCTGM since 1973.
– Reasons: 12-hour days, 7 days a week, stagnant wages.
– Strike ended on July 23 with a new contract guaranteeing one day off.

– Reactions:
– Frito-Lay denied wrongdoing and blamed union leadership.
– Kansas City DSA supported the strike.
– Teamsters and IWW members picketed and assisted financially.
– Heartland IWW chapter provided solidarity and fundraising.
– Frito-Lay stated no further negotiations with the union.

– Impact:
– Strike led to chip shortages in Kansas City metro area.
– Grocery and convenience stores faced shortages within 5 days.
– The strike affected the nation’s chip supply.
– Frito-Lay looked to hire new employees during the strike.
– Solidarity and support were shown by various organizations.

– References:
– Multiple news sources covered the strike and its resolution.
– Social media posts and news articles documented the strike events.
– The strike’s impact on the chip supply was widely reported.
– Various organizations and unions expressed support for the striking workers.
– The strike highlighted issues of long work hours and stagnant wages.