(GRAPELAND, TEXAS) – Workers employed at Darling Ingredients in Grapeland, Texas have voted overwhelmingly to join Teamsters Local 745.

The Drivers, who haul and recycle poultry by-products, organized with Local 745 to secure better working conditions, higher wages and improved benefits, Union Officials said.

Drivers at Darling Ingredients’ Grapeland Facility join fellow Darling Drivers in Dallas who are already represented by Local 745.

Jay Bridges, a Driver at Darling, said: “We recognized the benefits of becoming Teamsters when comparing our workplace to our Brothers in Dallas.  We are underpaid and our management showed too much favoritism.  Our decision to organize with the Teamsters will level the playing field,” said.

Local 745 Business Agent Michael Perez said: “Darling Drivers at Grapeland have finally gained the respect they deserve.  Now it is time to win a contract that reflects their hard work and dedication.”

Brent Taylor, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 745 and Teamsters International Southern Region Vice President, said: “I want to congratulate these Workers on becoming Teamsters and welcome them to Local 745.  We look forward to securing a strong first contract for improved pay, benefits and working conditions like those enjoyed by existing Darling Teamsters.”

Teamsters Local 745 represents Workers in a wide variety of industries throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area and the surrounding communities.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: Workers at Darling Ingredients Join Teamsters - International Brotherhood of Teamsters