Workers voted 257-114 to accept the two-year contract, returning to work the next day. At issue were wages, pensions, and health care.

One of the strikers' major demands was to establish an early retirement plan of "30 years and out," instead of having to wait until age 62 before being eligible for a pension. Under the new contract, workers who are 55 have the right to retire after 30 years with benefits. Strikers told the Militant this was a big issue because of the long hours and backbreaking nature of the work. One worker explained that in six years at Pepsi, he had two knee surgeries due to job-related injuries.

On wages, the union had asked for 4 percent, and obtained just under 3 percent, which comes out to an increase of 45 cents an hour each of the two years. Workers also beat back a company attempt to weaken employer contributions to health benefits.

One thing that motivated the strikers was the fact that workers at a nearby Coca-Cola plant, also organized by Local 792, do the same work but had a better contract. The contract at Coca-Cola includes a full "30-and out" clause.

Del Donaker, a Pepsi merchandiser driver, said, "When you have Coca-Cola just sitting there, you figure you deserve a comparable contract."

Teamster pickets readily discussed the contract and the strike on the afternoon before they voted. Many expressed their concern about the wages and pension plan. Others spoke about the positive impact the strike had on them. One worker, who identified himself as Tom, said, "Before the strike I would just pass co-workers in the hallway. We would never talk to each other. Now, having seen everyone on the picket line, we are very good friends."

During the strike, workers at Pepsi reached out and won solidarity from other workers. They held a picnic and rally that drew 500 people, including several meat packers from Dakota Premium Foods who recently organized themselves into the United Food and Commercial Workers union and are fighting for a contract. Workers from many other unions visited the picket lines, including auto workers, other Teamsters, and Machinists.

Strikers used ambulatory pickets, following scab drivers and throwing up picket lines wherever they delivered. Other union drivers often refused to cross these pickets.

Striking Pepsi workers also visited picket lines of hotel workers who were on strike. They leafleted the Minnesota State Fair and other fairs to inform other working people about their strike and encourage them to boycott Pepsi products.  
 
 
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