TEAMSTERS LAUNCH NATIONWIDE AIRGAS STRIKE
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WASHINGTON, June 25, 2025 ~ Teamsters at Airgas have taken a stand against the company's unfair labor practices and refusal to negotiate fair contracts. The tankhaul workers, represented by Teamsters Local 507 in Cleveland and Local 701 in New Brunswick, N.J., have gone on strike and extended picket lines to eight locations across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island.

According to Juan Campos, Director of the Teamsters Tankhaul Division and Teamsters International Vice President At-Large, the decision to strike was a response to the company's disrespect towards its workers and violation of labor laws. "The greedy people who run this company are breaking the law and interfering with our members' rights," he stated. "They have disrespected the workers who built this business, and now they are facing the consequences."

Airgas is a subsidiary of French multinational corporation Air Liquide and is known as the largest distributor of industrial, medical, and specialty gases in the U.S. Despite reporting a record $3.8 billion in net profits last year, the company continues to disregard labor laws and refuses to negotiate contracts that meet industry standards.

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Adam Hayes, an Airgas Teamster and steward with Local 507, expressed frustration with management's actions leading up to the strike. "Management has forced us to strike," he said. "Teamsters are united nationwide, and we'll do whatever it takes to win a fair contract."

The Teamsters represent hundreds of Airgas workers across the country and are prepared to extend picket lines to additional locations if necessary. Shawn Diaz, an Airgas Teamster and steward with Local 701, emphasized that their fight for fair treatment is not just about wages but also about respect from their employer. "This company talks a big game about safety and respect," Diaz stated. "But when it comes down to it, they won't even sit across the table and negotiate a real contract. We'll stay out as long as it takes for Airgas to treat us with the dignity and respect we've earned."

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. The union is standing in solidarity with the striking Airgas workers and encourages others to support their cause. "We'll do whatever it takes to ensure that these workers are treated fairly," said Colin McCullough, a spokesperson for the Teamsters. "We urge everyone to stand with us in this fight for justice."
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