August 19, 2019

New Jersey Warehouse Workers Stand Together for a Better Life

Nearly 100 workers at L&R Distributors in Monroe Township, N.J., joined UFCW Local 2013 on August 8 for better treatment in the workplace.

These hard-working men and women joined UFCW Local 2013 through a card check and neutrality agreement to strengthen wages, benefits, paid leave and working conditions. L&R Distributors is a leading national distributor within the supermarket, drug, independent and mass classes trade across the U.S.

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer,” said L& R Distributors worker Maria Lucas, who served on the organizing committee. “We just have to convince other people that they have the power. This is what they can do by participating to make change. It is important to stand up for your rights, and regardless of who you are and where you come from, to hold your head up high with dignity and respect.”

“We are extremely happy that the workers of L&R Distributors have chosen to join us and be represented by UFCW Local 2013,” said UFCW Local 2013 President Louis Mark Carotenuto. “Now, more than ever, is the time for workers to pull together and take on employers who would otherwise attempt to take advantage of what they perceive as a helpless class of workers – regardless of whether it’s because of race, ethnicity or sex.”

“Issues such as dignity and respect in the workplace; a livable wage with affordable benefits; and safe working conditions and reasonable work schedules are things that all workers should be afforded,” Carotenuto added. “Pay equality for female workers and the ability to achieve an opportunity for affordable retirement for all after years of dedication and service to a company that is a leader in their industry… these are not too much to strive for or achieve. The American dream is for all people and together we will work hard to achieve that for these members!”