O'Reilly Auto Parts Drivers Vote Teamsters

Gaining Fair, Annual Raises Driving Force in Election

ATLANTA, March 10, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A majority of drivers for O'Reilly Auto Parts have voted to be represented by Teamsters Local 728 in Atlanta. The Forest Park-based company employs 42 CDL drivers, who voted 27-11 for the union.

"On March 8 we stood together as drivers and are thrilled to now be able to call ourselves Teamsters," said route driver Kevin Culberson.

The drivers rallied around having Teamster representation so that they could begin negotiating fair, annual raises, safety improvements to the workplace and job security. The drivers prevailed despite facing an aggressive, anti-union campaign led by a union-busting law firm hired by the company.

"O'Reilly is a major player in the auto parts distribution industry," said Ben Speight, Director of Organizing for Local 728. "Its workers deserve better from this company, which last year had $4.8 billion in sales. While the route drivers were in the midst of their organizing campaign, their co-workers in the warehouse showed solidarity by actively encouraging them to vote for the union."

"Having a Teamster contract will be the best thing for drivers and our families," said Tony Perry, a route driver. "Being respected by O'Reilly and having a safe work environment is important to all of us."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit www.Teamster.org.

SOURCE Teamsters Local 728, Atlanta