Teamsters 743 Members Win Big in New Contract!

Members of Teamsters Local 743 have ratified a strong new agreement that delivers meaningful economic gains, expanded benefits, and long-term retirement security. The contract reflects the power of collective bargaining and the unity of the bargaining unit in Chicago.

Real Wage Growth and Stronger Minimums

The new contract secures guaranteed general wage increases (GWIs) for the life of the agreement:

• 2% increase in 2026

• 2% increase in 2027

• 2.5% increase in 2028

• Significantly increased wage minimums

• Market adjustments for admin staff

  
  

Pension Victory: Frozen No More

One of the biggest breakthroughs in this agreement is the thawing of the defined benefit pension plan.

• The previously frozen defined benefit (DB) pension has been restored.

• The pension factor increases from 1.5% to 2% effective January 1, 2025.

• Retroactive pension credit has been issued.

This is a major long-term win. Increasing the pension multiplier directly boosts retirement income for members and strengthens retirement security for years to come!

Major Boost to Auto and Work-Related Benefits

Members secured substantial improvements to everyday work-related expenses:

• Auto allowance increased to $2,000 per month (up from $1,500)

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Expanded Leave and Quality-of-Life Improvements

This agreement makes meaningful improvements to work-life balance and employee support:

• Improved bereavement leave: expanded length and coverage

• Unlimited rollover of unused sick leave (eliminating the previous 60-day cap)

• Lunch period changed from 30 unpaid minutes to 60 paid minutes for full-time employees

Congratulations, Teamsters 743!