Breakthru Beverage Drivers in Orlando Overcome Anti-Union Campaign

Arturo Lewis, a truck driver for Breakthru Beverage in Orlando, has worked for the multibillion-dollar alcohol wholesaler for about three and a half years and expressed his enjoyment of the social aspects of the job. However, when he and his fellow drivers organized with the Teamsters in 2024, they encountered a vigorous union-busting campaign from their employer.

Despite Breakthru Beverage spending over $375,000 on anti-union consultants and launching a campaign to discourage union membership, nearly 150 drivers in Florida voted to unionize. After forming the union, however, Breakthru management allegedly refused to engage in meaningful negotiations, prompting a four-month strike that ultimately ended with significant improvements in wages and benefits. Lewis looks forward to building on the gains made through union representation, emphasizing the solidarity and support among drivers.