BARGAINING UPDATES
Local 727 Informs CVS Executives of Negotiators’ Continuing Poor Behavior at the Bargaining Table
02.21.20 – In light of CVS’s recent press release, in which the Company stated that it “values the feedback of our pharmacists,” Teamsters Local 727 Secretary-Treasurer John Coli, Jr., once again wrote to CVS executives to relay pharmacists concerns and update the Company’s leadership on CVS negotiators’ continuing poor behavior at the bargaining table.
“Teamsters Local 727 members have devoted themselves to providing high-quality care to your customers, and yet, their contributions continue to be overlooked by CVS negotiators… After decades of providing the best possible care to their communities, don’t you agree your employees—the backbone of your company—deserve a fair contract?” wrote Coli. During the parties’ last bargaining session on Thursday, January 30, CVS negotiators continued to dismiss pharmacists concerns over unfair wages and the Company’s ongoing attempts to limit the scope of the bargaining unit. Rather than learn from its epic loss at the National Labor Relations Board, CVS persisted in resubmitting the same, unchanged, insulting wage proposal the Company first presented in 2016, as well as its proposal to allow non-union pharmacy managers to have the unrestricted right to perform bargaining unit work. When pressed to justify its wage proposal, lead CVS negotiator Jim Bucking claimed the Company did not feel obligated to alter its offer because “there hasn’t been a mass exodus of pharmacists because of the wage scale.” Bucking’s comment, as well as the Company’s refusal to offer any movement on these controversial issues, was seen by the Union bargaining committee to be in opposition to CVS’s good faith bargaining obligations. In his letters to CVS executives, Secretary-Treasurer Coli called on top leadership to step-in and direct their representatives to abide by the terms of CVS’s unfair labor practice settlement agreement. “I ask you…to demand CVS negotiators begin working in earnest to reach a fair agreement and come to negotiations on March 11, with a fair wage offer,” wrote Coli. “Teamsters Local 727 is seeking no more than what is fair and just for your devoted employees.” Local 727 urges all CVS pharmacists to stand with their fellow pharmacists and demonstrate their solidarity by signing the Union’s Petition for Fair Wages. Raise your voice and make your concerns heard! Members with questions should contact Local 727 Lead Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected]. Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments. |
Your Local 727
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CVS Claims Years of Overworking and Undervaluing Pharmacists is Justifiable Because ‘There Hasn’t Been a Mass Exodus’ of Workers
02.05.20 – Teamsters Local 727 and representatives of retail pharmacy giant CVS (NYSE: CVS) returned to the bargaining table on Thursday, January 30, marking the first time in over a year that the parties met to continue negotiating a successor collective bargaining agreement for CVS pharmacists. The meeting was scheduled as a result of the Union’s recent win at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Office of Appeals regarding numerous unfair labor practice charges filed by Local 727 over CVS’s bad faith negotiating tactics.
Throughout negotiations, Local 727 filed, and pursued through the appeals process, numerous unfair labor practice charges against CVS over the company’s repeated violations of federal labor laws. Late last year, the NLRB Office of Appeals agreed with the Union and announced that it had found that CVS had engaged in overall bad faith bargaining. As a result of the Union’s persistence, CVS was informed by the NLRB that it either had to agree to bargain in good faith and alter its behavior both at and away from the bargaining table or face a formal complaint and hearing. With compliance looming with the NLRB, CVS representatives opened Thursday’s negotiations by finally presenting the Union bargaining committee with a modified contract proposal.
During the bargaining session, CVS withdrew a proposal that proposed replacing union pharmacists with non-union Pharmacy Managers. Local 727 Secretary-Treasurer John Coli, Jr. credited the Union’s persistence for eliciting such movement.
“For years, CVS repeatedly delayed negotiations and refused to bargain in good faith with our Union. Movement on a proposal like this is a tremendous victory for our bargaining committee,” said Coli.
Local 727’s work is not over yet, however, as CVS resubmitted its proposal to allow Pharmacy Manager to have the unrestricted right to perform bargaining unit work, which the Union made clear was something it felt ran contrary to the company’s good faith bargaining obligations.
CVS representatives also presented Local 727 with a modified rest break proposal that incorporates some of the workplace standards stipulated by new amendments to the Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act (PPA), which were passed into law in December. Like the company’s return to the bargaining table, these amendments were also a result of the Union’s unwavering efforts at the Illinois Pharmaceutical Task Force to protect pharmacists and improve working conditions in Chicagoland pharmacies.
As a recent New York Times article illustrated, unnecessary administrative tasks in retail pharmacies have made it increasingly difficult for pharmacists to safely fill prescriptions and counsel patients. Retail pharmacists across the nation have been forced to take on a multitude of new responsibilities—responsibilities that distract from the safe practice of pharmacy—and work longer hours with few or no breaks in order to keep their jobs.
Though many fear long workdays and such a boom in responsibilities will endanger the public, a fear of retaliation has prevented many pharmacists from coming forward and reporting these dangerous work conditions.
To make matters worse, the New York Times reports that the specifics of pharmacy-related errors are difficult to uncover as a result of “lax reporting requirements,” companies’ unwillingness to release information on prescription misfills, and because victims or their families are frequently required to sign confidentiality agreements when settling lawsuits with companies.
For years, Local 727 has pressed companies and legislators alike to take action and address the dangers posed by overworking pharmacists and understaffing pharmacies. Thanks to the Union’s persistent efforts, the Illinois Pharmaceutical Task Force was created in 2017 and assigned the tasks of evaluating the PPA and suggesting improvements to the legislation.
As a result of Local 727’s input at each meeting, nearly all of the initiatives the Union pressed for, including the banning of productivity or production quotas that have been widely reported to pressure pharmacists to work at an unsafe pace, were ultimately recommended by the Task Force and incorporated into the PPA. Though the amended PPA represents a step forward, Local 727 believes more work must be done, including mandating a shorter workday for retail pharmacists.
As the New York Times reports, ineffective state legislation has made it difficult to regulate massive chain pharmacies like CVS. To improve Illinois’ ability to oversee pharmacies in the state and hold companies accountable for unsafe conditions, Local 727 has encouraged the Pharmaceutical Task Force to recommend strict liability penalties be incorporated into the PPA. The Task Force, which has been extended, is expected to reconvene to consider such suggestions in the coming months.
While Local 727 was pleased to see CVS had integrated some of the recent PPA changes into its contract proposals, the Union bargaining committee was disappointed to hear that the company was unprepared to make any changes to its wage proposal. Rather, CVS representatives returned to the bargaining table with the same proposal it presented in 2016—a three-year wage freeze from 2016-2019, less than two percent annual wage raises going forward, and drastically lower new hire wage rates that will not catch up to the full wage rate—which would result in CVS pharmacists being paid far below the company’s other union competitors in the Chicagoland retail pharmacy market.
Though CVS representatives agreed with the Union bargaining committee that pharmacists are the face of the company and the main driving factor behind CVS’s success, company representatives insisted that CVS felt that these low wage proposals were fair. CVS even went so far as to say that the company felt that the wages it was offering were the current fair value of pharmacists at-large. CVS representatives claimed that there was no reason for the company to alter its proposal when “there hasn’t been a mass exodus of pharmacists because of the wage scale.”
In an effort to investigate these claims of fairness by the company, the Union logically requested that CVS provide the wage information for non-union pharmacists employed by CVS, which CVS, unsurprisingly, refused to provide.
“It seems that CVS is baiting employees to quit rather than fairly compensating these hardworking professionals who serve a vital role in keeping patients safe,” said Coli. “CVS seems to think that pharmacy graduates are interchangeable and is refusing to acknowledge the contributions of its existing employees.”
As one South Carolina pharmacist told the New York Times, many pharmacists know that the amount of work being placed on their shoulders is dangerous but, if they don’t do the work they fear their employer will simply replace them with another pharmacist and “likely try to pay them less for the same work.”
After persistence from the Union, CVS finally admitted that working in a retail pharmacy is harder than other settings. Nevertheless, the company continued to nonsensically base its wage offer upon alleged wage data in non-retail settings during bargaining.
“Our members experience the same fear highlighted by the New York Times, so they go to work and break their backs for CVS. Now, CVS wants to thank pharmacists for their hard work by giving existing employees a three-year wage freeze, increases of less than two percent thereafter, and cutting wage rates for new hires. CVS should be embarrassed by its actions in light of the working conditions pharmacists endure,” added Coli. “Many of our members have spent decades working for CVS. Apparently, those years of hard work and dedication, years of building relationships and becoming valued members of the community, don’t mean anything to CVS.”
Despite a recent press release from CVS that claims the company “values” and “encourages” feedback from its employees, the Union’s letters to CVS executives, sent in June 2018 and October 2018, were essentially ignored by CVS. To date, the Company has offered no remedies for the feedback presented on behalf of its Chicago pharmacists by the Union.
Local 727 and CVS are currently scheduled to resume negotiations on Wednesday, March 11 and Thursday, March 12.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
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CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-750
Throughout negotiations, Local 727 filed, and pursued through the appeals process, numerous unfair labor practice charges against CVS over the company’s repeated violations of federal labor laws. Late last year, the NLRB Office of Appeals agreed with the Union and announced that it had found that CVS had engaged in overall bad faith bargaining. As a result of the Union’s persistence, CVS was informed by the NLRB that it either had to agree to bargain in good faith and alter its behavior both at and away from the bargaining table or face a formal complaint and hearing. With compliance looming with the NLRB, CVS representatives opened Thursday’s negotiations by finally presenting the Union bargaining committee with a modified contract proposal.
During the bargaining session, CVS withdrew a proposal that proposed replacing union pharmacists with non-union Pharmacy Managers. Local 727 Secretary-Treasurer John Coli, Jr. credited the Union’s persistence for eliciting such movement.
“For years, CVS repeatedly delayed negotiations and refused to bargain in good faith with our Union. Movement on a proposal like this is a tremendous victory for our bargaining committee,” said Coli.
Local 727’s work is not over yet, however, as CVS resubmitted its proposal to allow Pharmacy Manager to have the unrestricted right to perform bargaining unit work, which the Union made clear was something it felt ran contrary to the company’s good faith bargaining obligations.
CVS representatives also presented Local 727 with a modified rest break proposal that incorporates some of the workplace standards stipulated by new amendments to the Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act (PPA), which were passed into law in December. Like the company’s return to the bargaining table, these amendments were also a result of the Union’s unwavering efforts at the Illinois Pharmaceutical Task Force to protect pharmacists and improve working conditions in Chicagoland pharmacies.
As a recent New York Times article illustrated, unnecessary administrative tasks in retail pharmacies have made it increasingly difficult for pharmacists to safely fill prescriptions and counsel patients. Retail pharmacists across the nation have been forced to take on a multitude of new responsibilities—responsibilities that distract from the safe practice of pharmacy—and work longer hours with few or no breaks in order to keep their jobs.
Though many fear long workdays and such a boom in responsibilities will endanger the public, a fear of retaliation has prevented many pharmacists from coming forward and reporting these dangerous work conditions.
To make matters worse, the New York Times reports that the specifics of pharmacy-related errors are difficult to uncover as a result of “lax reporting requirements,” companies’ unwillingness to release information on prescription misfills, and because victims or their families are frequently required to sign confidentiality agreements when settling lawsuits with companies.
For years, Local 727 has pressed companies and legislators alike to take action and address the dangers posed by overworking pharmacists and understaffing pharmacies. Thanks to the Union’s persistent efforts, the Illinois Pharmaceutical Task Force was created in 2017 and assigned the tasks of evaluating the PPA and suggesting improvements to the legislation.
As a result of Local 727’s input at each meeting, nearly all of the initiatives the Union pressed for, including the banning of productivity or production quotas that have been widely reported to pressure pharmacists to work at an unsafe pace, were ultimately recommended by the Task Force and incorporated into the PPA. Though the amended PPA represents a step forward, Local 727 believes more work must be done, including mandating a shorter workday for retail pharmacists.
As the New York Times reports, ineffective state legislation has made it difficult to regulate massive chain pharmacies like CVS. To improve Illinois’ ability to oversee pharmacies in the state and hold companies accountable for unsafe conditions, Local 727 has encouraged the Pharmaceutical Task Force to recommend strict liability penalties be incorporated into the PPA. The Task Force, which has been extended, is expected to reconvene to consider such suggestions in the coming months.
While Local 727 was pleased to see CVS had integrated some of the recent PPA changes into its contract proposals, the Union bargaining committee was disappointed to hear that the company was unprepared to make any changes to its wage proposal. Rather, CVS representatives returned to the bargaining table with the same proposal it presented in 2016—a three-year wage freeze from 2016-2019, less than two percent annual wage raises going forward, and drastically lower new hire wage rates that will not catch up to the full wage rate—which would result in CVS pharmacists being paid far below the company’s other union competitors in the Chicagoland retail pharmacy market.
Though CVS representatives agreed with the Union bargaining committee that pharmacists are the face of the company and the main driving factor behind CVS’s success, company representatives insisted that CVS felt that these low wage proposals were fair. CVS even went so far as to say that the company felt that the wages it was offering were the current fair value of pharmacists at-large. CVS representatives claimed that there was no reason for the company to alter its proposal when “there hasn’t been a mass exodus of pharmacists because of the wage scale.”
In an effort to investigate these claims of fairness by the company, the Union logically requested that CVS provide the wage information for non-union pharmacists employed by CVS, which CVS, unsurprisingly, refused to provide.
“It seems that CVS is baiting employees to quit rather than fairly compensating these hardworking professionals who serve a vital role in keeping patients safe,” said Coli. “CVS seems to think that pharmacy graduates are interchangeable and is refusing to acknowledge the contributions of its existing employees.”
As one South Carolina pharmacist told the New York Times, many pharmacists know that the amount of work being placed on their shoulders is dangerous but, if they don’t do the work they fear their employer will simply replace them with another pharmacist and “likely try to pay them less for the same work.”
After persistence from the Union, CVS finally admitted that working in a retail pharmacy is harder than other settings. Nevertheless, the company continued to nonsensically base its wage offer upon alleged wage data in non-retail settings during bargaining.
“Our members experience the same fear highlighted by the New York Times, so they go to work and break their backs for CVS. Now, CVS wants to thank pharmacists for their hard work by giving existing employees a three-year wage freeze, increases of less than two percent thereafter, and cutting wage rates for new hires. CVS should be embarrassed by its actions in light of the working conditions pharmacists endure,” added Coli. “Many of our members have spent decades working for CVS. Apparently, those years of hard work and dedication, years of building relationships and becoming valued members of the community, don’t mean anything to CVS.”
Despite a recent press release from CVS that claims the company “values” and “encourages” feedback from its employees, the Union’s letters to CVS executives, sent in June 2018 and October 2018, were essentially ignored by CVS. To date, the Company has offered no remedies for the feedback presented on behalf of its Chicago pharmacists by the Union.
Local 727 and CVS are currently scheduled to resume negotiations on Wednesday, March 11 and Thursday, March 12.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
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CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-750
CVS Finally Agrees to Meet with Union on January 30 as a Result of Local 727’s Recent NLRB Victory
01.21.20 – Teamsters Local 727 and CVS will meet for their next bargaining session on Thursday, January 30 to continue negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement covering CVS pharmacists. This bargaining session will be the first between the parties in over a year and is only occurring as a result of Local 727’s unwavering pursuit of justice and the Union’s recent win at the National Labor Relation Board’s Office of Appeals.
In an effort to hold CVS management accountable for its unlawful actions throughout negotiations, Local 727 not only filed unfair labor practice charges against the Company but continued to pursue those charges through the appeals process, resulting in CVS acquiescing to the NLRB and agreeing to return to the bargaining table and turnaround its behavior. In light of the NLRB’s orders, the Local 727 bargaining committee has demanded CVS come prepared to the parties’ next meeting ready to respond to the Union’s two last, best, and final offers (LBFO) and to present an LBFO of its own.
As a reminder, on November 14, 2018, the Local 727 bargaining committee took the bold step of presenting CVS management with two LBFOs in an attempt to reach a fair contract. Each of the Union’s LBFO options resolved all outstanding proposals and offered the parties a pathway to a fair contract.
The Union’s first LBFO option included full retroactivity to the previous CBA’s expiration on May 7, 2016 and 2% wage raises each year through May 7, 2021.
Local 727’s second LBFO option provided for a 6% raise immediately upon ratification of the contract in lieu of retroactivity, as well as subsequent 2% wage raises each year of the agreement through May 7, 2021.
The Union’s two LBFO options also included proposals to:
Given CVS’s bad faith behavior during negotiations, the Union also vehemently pursued reform on the state level. Thanks to Local 727’s efforts, CVS must immediately comply with amendments to the Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act that were recently passed into law.
Though the Company had ample time to review and draft a counterproposal to the Union’s two LBFO options at both the December 10, 2018, and January 24, 2019, meetings—the parties’ last bargaining sessions—CVS management failed to do so. Instead, at the latter meeting, CVS management outrageously and in bad faith presented a regressive proposal to introduce a new, lower wage tier for new graduates.
Local 727 has demanded that the Company come to bargaining on January 30 with its own last, best, and final offer.
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee invites and encourages all CVS pharmacists represented by Local 727 to join the Union at the next bargaining session to hear firsthand the Company’s response to the Union’s proposals and presentation of its own LBFO.
Negotiations will be held in the Local 727 Meeting Hall at 1300 W. Higgins Rd, Suite 114 in Park Ridge on Thursday, January 30 beginning at 10 a.m. and continuing throughout the day.
Members interested in attending should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
In an effort to hold CVS management accountable for its unlawful actions throughout negotiations, Local 727 not only filed unfair labor practice charges against the Company but continued to pursue those charges through the appeals process, resulting in CVS acquiescing to the NLRB and agreeing to return to the bargaining table and turnaround its behavior. In light of the NLRB’s orders, the Local 727 bargaining committee has demanded CVS come prepared to the parties’ next meeting ready to respond to the Union’s two last, best, and final offers (LBFO) and to present an LBFO of its own.
As a reminder, on November 14, 2018, the Local 727 bargaining committee took the bold step of presenting CVS management with two LBFOs in an attempt to reach a fair contract. Each of the Union’s LBFO options resolved all outstanding proposals and offered the parties a pathway to a fair contract.
The Union’s first LBFO option included full retroactivity to the previous CBA’s expiration on May 7, 2016 and 2% wage raises each year through May 7, 2021.
Local 727’s second LBFO option provided for a 6% raise immediately upon ratification of the contract in lieu of retroactivity, as well as subsequent 2% wage raises each year of the agreement through May 7, 2021.
The Union’s two LBFO options also included proposals to:
- Add clarity defining a full-time employee as anyone working thirty or more hours each week upon the date of ratification, guaranteeing full-time benefits for employees who work thirty or more hours;
- Remove CVS management’s right to establish arbitrary cluster groups for vacation bidding and, instead, introduce a fair, strictly seniority-based week-by-week bidding system;
- Maintain current holiday contract language for all current employees, but remove restrictions on holiday scheduling for pharmacists hired after the agreement’s ratification date;
- Specify that full-time pharmacists will receive holiday pay based upon the number of hours they would normally be scheduled to work on the day of the holiday;
- Maintain the bargaining unit’s participation in the Teamsters Local 727 Legal and Educational Assistance Fund; and
- Guarantee a pharmacist on pregnancy leave will receive her full salary for the first four weeks of FMLA leave.
Given CVS’s bad faith behavior during negotiations, the Union also vehemently pursued reform on the state level. Thanks to Local 727’s efforts, CVS must immediately comply with amendments to the Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act that were recently passed into law.
Though the Company had ample time to review and draft a counterproposal to the Union’s two LBFO options at both the December 10, 2018, and January 24, 2019, meetings—the parties’ last bargaining sessions—CVS management failed to do so. Instead, at the latter meeting, CVS management outrageously and in bad faith presented a regressive proposal to introduce a new, lower wage tier for new graduates.
Local 727 has demanded that the Company come to bargaining on January 30 with its own last, best, and final offer.
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee invites and encourages all CVS pharmacists represented by Local 727 to join the Union at the next bargaining session to hear firsthand the Company’s response to the Union’s proposals and presentation of its own LBFO.
Negotiations will be held in the Local 727 Meeting Hall at 1300 W. Higgins Rd, Suite 114 in Park Ridge on Thursday, January 30 beginning at 10 a.m. and continuing throughout the day.
Members interested in attending should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Appears Not to Have Learned its Lesson, Company Provides Union with Only One Meeting Date
01.16.20 – Despite the National Labor Relations Board’s recent order for CVS to “bargain collectively in good faith and meet at reasonable times with the Union,” the Company appears not to have learned its lesson. After Teamsters Local 727 demanded CVS provide multiple dates for bargaining in order to avoid scheduling conflicts and prevent further delays, the Company responded by sending the Union only ONE date. Unfortunately, the Union bargaining committee is unavailable on the one day CVS proposed.
“Our request should not have come as a surprise to CVS representatives—we’ve been asking CVS to provide multiple dates for bargaining since 2018. Had CVS provided more than one date, as we requested, we could have selected a different day and been preparing right now for our next bargaining session. Instead, CVS is continuing to waste time,” said Melissa Senatore, Lead Local 727 Business Representative for CVS pharmacists.
Delaying negotiations by refusing to provide the Union with more than one date for bargaining was one of the issues that previously prompted Local 727 to file unfair labor practice charges against CVS and, ultimately, resulted in the NLRB issuing its extensive list of orders for the Company to follow. Should CVS continue these antics and neglect the NLRB’s clear orders, it may be forced to defend its actions and answer for its noncompliance before a federal court.
“Our CVS pharmacy members have waited long enough,” added Senatore. “We demand CVS immediately cease these delays and comply with the NLRB’s orders.”
Local 727 has again requested CVS send multiple additional dates for bargaining. CVS has yet to respond.
Members with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
“Our request should not have come as a surprise to CVS representatives—we’ve been asking CVS to provide multiple dates for bargaining since 2018. Had CVS provided more than one date, as we requested, we could have selected a different day and been preparing right now for our next bargaining session. Instead, CVS is continuing to waste time,” said Melissa Senatore, Lead Local 727 Business Representative for CVS pharmacists.
Delaying negotiations by refusing to provide the Union with more than one date for bargaining was one of the issues that previously prompted Local 727 to file unfair labor practice charges against CVS and, ultimately, resulted in the NLRB issuing its extensive list of orders for the Company to follow. Should CVS continue these antics and neglect the NLRB’s clear orders, it may be forced to defend its actions and answer for its noncompliance before a federal court.
“Our CVS pharmacy members have waited long enough,” added Senatore. “We demand CVS immediately cease these delays and comply with the NLRB’s orders.”
Local 727 has again requested CVS send multiple additional dates for bargaining. CVS has yet to respond.
Members with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
After NLRB Office of Appeals Determines CVS Engaged in Overall Bad Faith Bargaining, Local 727 Demands Company Comply with Global Settlement Terms
01.15.20 – Last month, the National Labor Relations Board Office of Appeals overturned Region 13’s dismissal of unfair labor practice charges filed by Teamsters Local 727 against CVS and announced that it had determined that CVS has engaged in overall bad faith bargaining throughout contract negotiations. The Office of Appeals decision is only the latest in a series of victories for CVS pharmacists and Local 727 over the past several months.
In both August and October of the past year, Region 13 also found merit with several ULP charges filed by the Union against CVS. Among the charges that the NLRB has found merit with are charges filed over the Company’s interrogation of employees, unilateral implementation of changes in wages, terms, and conditions of employment for Union pharmacists, failure to notify and/or refusal to meet with the Union to bargain over such changes, and a charge over CVS’s failure to provide Local 727 with requested information.
In light of the NLRB’s decisions, CVS was forced to choose between settling the charges with Region 13 and agreeing to turnaround its behavior or taking its chances with an NLRB hearing. Considering the large number of merit-finding decisions, it was likely CVS would lose at a hearing.
As part of the global settlement agreement, the NLRB has ordered CVS to post notices in every pharmacy that state the Company:
DOWNLOAD NOTICE
EMPLOYER WALL OF SHAME
Following the issuance of the above terms, Local 727 contacted CVS to demand that the Company fulfill the terms of the global settlement.
“CVS’s bad faith and unlawful actions have gone on for far too long and your pharmacists deserve more,” wrote Local 727 General Counsel Jayna Brown. “The Union demands that CVS provide its last best and final offer and/or come to bargaining to actually reach a fair contract rather than continuing to engage in surface bargaining and/or bad faith bargaining.”
In both August and October of the past year, Region 13 also found merit with several ULP charges filed by the Union against CVS. Among the charges that the NLRB has found merit with are charges filed over the Company’s interrogation of employees, unilateral implementation of changes in wages, terms, and conditions of employment for Union pharmacists, failure to notify and/or refusal to meet with the Union to bargain over such changes, and a charge over CVS’s failure to provide Local 727 with requested information.
In light of the NLRB’s decisions, CVS was forced to choose between settling the charges with Region 13 and agreeing to turnaround its behavior or taking its chances with an NLRB hearing. Considering the large number of merit-finding decisions, it was likely CVS would lose at a hearing.
As part of the global settlement agreement, the NLRB has ordered CVS to post notices in every pharmacy that state the Company:
- WILL NOT interfere with, restrain or coerce their employees in the exercise of their rights to form, join, or assist a union, choose a representative to bargain with the Company on their behalf, act together with other employees for their benefit or protection, or their employees’ right to choose not to engage in any of these protected activities;
- WILL NOT unilaterally implement changes in wages and terms and conditions of employment of registered pharmacists, graduate non-registered pharmacists, regularly employed part-time graduate and registered pharmacists and student pharmacy interns;
- WILL NOT fail to notify and/or refuse to meet and bargain in good faith with Local 727 regarding the effects of material changes to the prescription verification procedure, before putting such changes into effect;
- WILL NOT refuse to bargain in good faith with Local 727 as the exclusive collective bargaining representative of Chicagoland CVS employees;
- WILL NOT fail and refuse to provide Local 727 with the break policy, the dates, times and locations of meetings held with bargaining unit employees for the purpose of discussing store closures, in accordance with an established past practice, that is relevant and necessary to its role as the exclusive collective bargaining representative of Chicagoland CVS employees;
- WILL NOT interrogate our employees about their feelings about the Union and/or support for the Union;
- WILL NOT deny representatives of Local 727 access to our stores;
- WILL NOT bypass Local 727 and deal directly with employees concerning their wages, hours, and working conditions;
- WILL, upon request, continue to bargain in good faith with the Union as the exclusive collective bargaining representative of CVS employees regarding the effects of our change to the prescription verification procedure;
- WILL, upon request, bargain collectively in good faith and meet at reasonable times with Local 727 as the exclusive collective bargaining representative of CVS employees;
- WILL act away from the table consistent with the Company’s duty to bargain in good faith;
- WILL immediately provide Local 727 with the break policy and the dates, times and locations of meetings held with bargaining unit employees to discuss store closures;
- WILL rescind any discipline or negative performance appraisals issued to CVS employees directly related to the implementation of a two-step prescription verification procedure.
DOWNLOAD NOTICE
EMPLOYER WALL OF SHAME
Following the issuance of the above terms, Local 727 contacted CVS to demand that the Company fulfill the terms of the global settlement.
“CVS’s bad faith and unlawful actions have gone on for far too long and your pharmacists deserve more,” wrote Local 727 General Counsel Jayna Brown. “The Union demands that CVS provide its last best and final offer and/or come to bargaining to actually reach a fair contract rather than continuing to engage in surface bargaining and/or bad faith bargaining.”
Click here to read the Union’s full letter.
Members with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Members with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
NLRB Office of Appeals Sides with Union,
Overturns Region 13 Decision,
Finds CVS has Engaged in Overall Bad Faith Bargaining
12.19.19 – Late last Friday, the National Labor Relations Board’s Office of Appeals announced that it would be overturning Region 13’s decision to dismiss an unfair labor practice charge filed by Teamsters Local 727 against CVS as a result of the Company’s bad faith bargaining. In so doing, the Office of Appeals has determined that CVS has engaged in overall bad faith bargaining throughout contract negotiations.
As a result of the Office of Appeals’ decision, CVS will be forced to reform its behavior or face an NLRB complaint and hearing.
“This is the victory we’ve been waiting for,” said Melissa Senatore, Lead Local 727 Business Representative for CVS pharmacists. “Because members stood firm and never gave up, CVS will be held accountable for its unlawful actions. We are now one step closer to winning a fair contract.”
Local 727 will update members when CVS management has issued a response to the Office of Appeals’ decision.
Members with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
As a result of the Office of Appeals’ decision, CVS will be forced to reform its behavior or face an NLRB complaint and hearing.
“This is the victory we’ve been waiting for,” said Melissa Senatore, Lead Local 727 Business Representative for CVS pharmacists. “Because members stood firm and never gave up, CVS will be held accountable for its unlawful actions. We are now one step closer to winning a fair contract.”
Local 727 will update members when CVS management has issued a response to the Office of Appeals’ decision.
Members with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Yet Another Union Victory, NLRB Finds Merit with ULP Charge Filed Against CVS
10.31.19 – Region 13 of the National Labor Relations Board has once again found merit with an unfair labor practice charge filed by Teamsters Local 727 against CVS. Local 727 initially filed the ULP charge as a result of the Company’s failure to provide the Union with requested information relating to grievances submitted to arbitration.
“Rather than spending its time and efforts trying to reach a fair contract, CVS has spent its time and money fighting tooth-and-nail against valid ULP charges. We are pleased that the Board has at last begun to hold CVS accountable for its unlawful actions,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
This merit-finding decision is only the latest in a series of victories for CVS pharmacists and Local 727.
In August, Region 13 similarly found merit with ULP charges filed against CVS over the Company’s attempts to circumvent the Union and deal directly with employees, as well as with its unilateral implementation of a new two-step verification system. To remedy these violations, Local 727 demanded that Region 13 order CVS management to rescind all unilateral changes, restore the status quo, bargain in good faith with the Union, and email all CVS pharmacists a notice informing them that CVS will no longer violate federal law.
In light of the significant number of ULP charges filed against CVS—and the subsequent number of merit-finding decisions issued by Region 13 of the NLRB—Local 727 has requested that Region 13 seek special remedies for this latest violation. The Union has requested that CVS management stand before the employees whose rights they have violated and affirmatively state that the Company will no longer violate the law.
“The NLRB has repeatedly found merit with ULP charges against CVS. Simply posting a notice at the workplace is clearly not enough to deter this repeat offender. Region 13 and the NLRB must take special action to effectuate the National Labor Relations Act and protect workers,” added Secretary-Treasurer Coli.
Local 727 is also eagerly awaiting the Labor Board’s ruling on the Union’s appeal of Region 13’s decision to dismiss some of Local 727’s earlier ULP charges against CVS. Local 727 continues to believe strongly that the ULP charges it filed over CVS’s overall bad faith bargaining, as well as the Union’s concerns that a recent ULP settlement did not appropriately remedy CVS’s violations of federal law, are well substantiated and valid.
“We cannot give up now,” said Coli, “we must continue to stand united and fight back against this corporate bully together. I urge all pharmacists to remain alert and to continue to report ULPs and contract violations to their Local 727 business representative. Together we have the power to hold CVS accountable for its actions.”
Members wanting to report a ULP or contract violation, or those with questions, should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
“Rather than spending its time and efforts trying to reach a fair contract, CVS has spent its time and money fighting tooth-and-nail against valid ULP charges. We are pleased that the Board has at last begun to hold CVS accountable for its unlawful actions,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
This merit-finding decision is only the latest in a series of victories for CVS pharmacists and Local 727.
In August, Region 13 similarly found merit with ULP charges filed against CVS over the Company’s attempts to circumvent the Union and deal directly with employees, as well as with its unilateral implementation of a new two-step verification system. To remedy these violations, Local 727 demanded that Region 13 order CVS management to rescind all unilateral changes, restore the status quo, bargain in good faith with the Union, and email all CVS pharmacists a notice informing them that CVS will no longer violate federal law.
In light of the significant number of ULP charges filed against CVS—and the subsequent number of merit-finding decisions issued by Region 13 of the NLRB—Local 727 has requested that Region 13 seek special remedies for this latest violation. The Union has requested that CVS management stand before the employees whose rights they have violated and affirmatively state that the Company will no longer violate the law.
“The NLRB has repeatedly found merit with ULP charges against CVS. Simply posting a notice at the workplace is clearly not enough to deter this repeat offender. Region 13 and the NLRB must take special action to effectuate the National Labor Relations Act and protect workers,” added Secretary-Treasurer Coli.
Local 727 is also eagerly awaiting the Labor Board’s ruling on the Union’s appeal of Region 13’s decision to dismiss some of Local 727’s earlier ULP charges against CVS. Local 727 continues to believe strongly that the ULP charges it filed over CVS’s overall bad faith bargaining, as well as the Union’s concerns that a recent ULP settlement did not appropriately remedy CVS’s violations of federal law, are well substantiated and valid.
“We cannot give up now,” said Coli, “we must continue to stand united and fight back against this corporate bully together. I urge all pharmacists to remain alert and to continue to report ULPs and contract violations to their Local 727 business representative. Together we have the power to hold CVS accountable for its actions.”
Members wanting to report a ULP or contract violation, or those with questions, should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Local 727 Achieves Long Awaited Victory, NLRB Finds Merit with Several ULP Charges Filed Against CVS
08.05.19 – Region 13 of the National Labor Relations Board has informed Teamsters Local 727 that it has found merit with several unfair labor practice charges filed by the Union against CVS.
Among the ULP charges that the NLRB has found merit with are charges filed by Local 727 in April over CVS’s interrogation of pharmacists and attempts to circumvent the Union and deal directly with employees. The Labor Board has determined that CVS District Leader Pooja Patel and CVS Pharmacy Supervisor Kevin Murphy’s actions, including cornering Local 727 pharmacists and questioning them about the Union’s activities and employees’ views on the ongoing contract negotiations, constitute direct dealing and interrogation and are violations of federal law.
The NLRB also found merit with a ULP charge filed against CVS as a result of the Company’s unilateral implementation of a new two step verification system. To remedy this violation, Local 727 has requested the Labor Board force CVS to rescind the change and bargain in good faith with the Union as the Company is required to do by law. Local 727 has also asked that the NLRB require the Company to email all CVS pharmacists a notice informing them that the two step verification system has been rescinded and CVS management will no longer violate federal law.
Local 727 strongly believes that the ULP charges it has filed against CVS related to information requests, union surveillance, and CVS’s elimination of the equity program are all well substantiated. On Friday, the Union appealed Region 13 of the NLRB’s decision to dismiss some of these charges. The ULP charges will next be reviewed by the NLRB Office of Appeals in Washington, D.C.
“The Labor Board’s recent findings are a long-awaited victory for CVS pharmacists and a prime example of the power of persistence,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “Thanks to Local 727’s perseverance and the bravery of our members, we have seen justice served.”
Despite the NLRB’s ruling, CVS does not seem to have learned its lesson or attempted to turn over a new leaf. In fact, the Company has gone out of its way to attempt to limit the penalties it is facing by refusing to inform pharmacists of its violations via email despite it being the sole form of communication through which CVS typically corresponds with its employees.
“We cannot allow ourselves to be deterred by CVS’s actions. We must remain strong and united,” added Secretary-Treasurer Coli. “I urge all pharmacists to continue to report ULPs and contract violations to Local 727. By being vigilant we can ensure CVS is held accountable for its heinous, unlawful actions.”
Members wanting to report a contract violation or with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Among the ULP charges that the NLRB has found merit with are charges filed by Local 727 in April over CVS’s interrogation of pharmacists and attempts to circumvent the Union and deal directly with employees. The Labor Board has determined that CVS District Leader Pooja Patel and CVS Pharmacy Supervisor Kevin Murphy’s actions, including cornering Local 727 pharmacists and questioning them about the Union’s activities and employees’ views on the ongoing contract negotiations, constitute direct dealing and interrogation and are violations of federal law.
The NLRB also found merit with a ULP charge filed against CVS as a result of the Company’s unilateral implementation of a new two step verification system. To remedy this violation, Local 727 has requested the Labor Board force CVS to rescind the change and bargain in good faith with the Union as the Company is required to do by law. Local 727 has also asked that the NLRB require the Company to email all CVS pharmacists a notice informing them that the two step verification system has been rescinded and CVS management will no longer violate federal law.
Local 727 strongly believes that the ULP charges it has filed against CVS related to information requests, union surveillance, and CVS’s elimination of the equity program are all well substantiated. On Friday, the Union appealed Region 13 of the NLRB’s decision to dismiss some of these charges. The ULP charges will next be reviewed by the NLRB Office of Appeals in Washington, D.C.
“The Labor Board’s recent findings are a long-awaited victory for CVS pharmacists and a prime example of the power of persistence,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “Thanks to Local 727’s perseverance and the bravery of our members, we have seen justice served.”
Despite the NLRB’s ruling, CVS does not seem to have learned its lesson or attempted to turn over a new leaf. In fact, the Company has gone out of its way to attempt to limit the penalties it is facing by refusing to inform pharmacists of its violations via email despite it being the sole form of communication through which CVS typically corresponds with its employees.
“We cannot allow ourselves to be deterred by CVS’s actions. We must remain strong and united,” added Secretary-Treasurer Coli. “I urge all pharmacists to continue to report ULPs and contract violations to Local 727. By being vigilant we can ensure CVS is held accountable for its heinous, unlawful actions.”
Members wanting to report a contract violation or with questions should contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or grievance(s), or as a waiver of any rights, arguments, or defenses under any contract, collective bargaining agreement, or applicable law. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
ATTENTION CVS PHARMACISTS: Do Not Be Fooled by CVS’s Desperate Attempts to Misinform You about Contract Negotiations
04.23.19 – Last week, Teamsters Local 727 filed two new unfair labor practice charges against CVS after learning that members of CVS management (Pooja Patel and Kevin Murphy) had allegedly engaged in union surveillance, including questioning members about their union membership, activity, and benefits. Adding insult to injury, CVS allegedly attempted to circumvent the Union and deal directly with members which is a clear violation of federal labor law.
Local 727 has also learned that CVS District Leader Pooja Patel has allegedly been informing pharmacists that it is the Union that is not cooperating with CVS in negotiations. Such statements are not only surprising to hear coming from Pooja Patel, a District Lead who has not attended a single bargaining session, but are also entirely false and completely misleading.
Local 727 has also learned that CVS District Leader Pooja Patel has allegedly been informing pharmacists that it is the Union that is not cooperating with CVS in negotiations. Such statements are not only surprising to hear coming from Pooja Patel, a District Lead who has not attended a single bargaining session, but are also entirely false and completely misleading.
In addition to spreading lies about negotiations and ULP charges, Local 727 members have also recently reported that District Leads have allegedly told pharmacists that the Local 727 Legal and Educational Assistance Fund, which in the past has provided up to $10,000 in college tuition reimbursements per year per student for eligible participants and their eligible family members, is “fake news.” To be clear, the Teamsters Local 727 Legal and Educational Assistance Fund, is far from “fake” and the Fund has reported that it did in fact distribute nearly $30 million to hundreds of eligible Local 727 members and their families over the program’s 20-year history.
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee would like to invite Patel and all District Leads who have not attended negotiations, to participate in the next bargaining session so they might all learn first-hand how inaccurate management’s statements have been and see with their own eyes how disrespectful and poorly behaved CVS negotiators are during negotiations. Unfortunately, the Union cannot provide a specific date for the next bargaining session as CVS has yet to provide Local 727 with any meeting dates since the parties’ last bargaining session in January. Local 727 recently reminded the Company of their lack of response to the Union’s request, but has not, to date, received an offer of dates to meet.
Members wanting to report a contract violation or with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee would like to invite Patel and all District Leads who have not attended negotiations, to participate in the next bargaining session so they might all learn first-hand how inaccurate management’s statements have been and see with their own eyes how disrespectful and poorly behaved CVS negotiators are during negotiations. Unfortunately, the Union cannot provide a specific date for the next bargaining session as CVS has yet to provide Local 727 with any meeting dates since the parties’ last bargaining session in January. Local 727 recently reminded the Company of their lack of response to the Union’s request, but has not, to date, received an offer of dates to meet.
Members wanting to report a contract violation or with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Don’t be Fooled by the Company’s Tactics, CVS’s Actions Prove It Can’t be Trusted
04.18.19 – Yesterday, Teamsters Local 727 filed two new unfair labor practice charges against CVS for the Company’s heinous union surveillance activities and attempts to circumvent the Union and deal directly with employees.
The Union’s charges stem from recent reports made by pharmacists to Local 727 of CVS District Leads and Supervisors allegedly cornering Teamster pharmacists and questioning them about the Union’s activities and their views on the ongoing contract negotiations. CVS management has, according to multiple Local 727 members, asked pharmacists what they need from a new collective bargaining agreement and attempted to blame the delay in reaching an agreement on the Union.
Not only is this behavior an egregious violation of federal labor law and the CVS CBA, but the Company’s claims that it is Local 727 that has delayed negotiations couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Throughout negotiations, Local 727 has arrived to each and every bargaining session ready and willing to reach a fair agreement. In fact, the Local 727 bargaining committee took the unprecedented step of presenting the Company with not one but two last, best, and final offers in a good faith attempt to reach an agreement and conclude negotiations.
Unlike the Union, the only real movement CVS has made on its nearly three-years-old contract proposal has been to present a regressive proposal to cut new hire wage rates by offering a “new grad” wage rate. With this absurd backward movement, CVS is sending the message that it believes its overworked pharmacists are being overpaid—a ludicrous notion which Local 727 strongly opposes.
Additionally, despite Local 727’s firm stance that it is unwilling to consider any reduction in Union jobs, CVS has refused to make any movement on its proposal to eliminate PICS from the bargaining unit. When questioned by the Union bargaining committee on its motivation for such a proposal, CVS management has admitted that it would like to have a Company watchdog in each pharmacy to keep an eye on Union members.
In addition to stalling negotiations by refusing to make constructive movement on any proposals, CVS has also delayed bargaining by not providing the Union with meeting dates in a timely manner. To date, CVS has not contacted the Union or provided dates for bargaining since the parties last met on January 24.
Local 727 would like to thank the brave pharmacists who came forward to report CVS’s deplorable and unlawful behavior. CVS has seen how strongly united and unrelenting Local 727 members and the Union bargaining committee are in their demand for a fair contract—these atrocious actions appear to be an angry response to that solidarity and a feeble attempt by the Company to divide pharmacists.
If YOU have experienced similar harassment, if CVS management has attempted to intimidate you in any way, or if the Company has approached and attempted to directly deal with you, contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore IMMEDIATELY.
Members wanting to report a contract violation or with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
The Union’s charges stem from recent reports made by pharmacists to Local 727 of CVS District Leads and Supervisors allegedly cornering Teamster pharmacists and questioning them about the Union’s activities and their views on the ongoing contract negotiations. CVS management has, according to multiple Local 727 members, asked pharmacists what they need from a new collective bargaining agreement and attempted to blame the delay in reaching an agreement on the Union.
Not only is this behavior an egregious violation of federal labor law and the CVS CBA, but the Company’s claims that it is Local 727 that has delayed negotiations couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Throughout negotiations, Local 727 has arrived to each and every bargaining session ready and willing to reach a fair agreement. In fact, the Local 727 bargaining committee took the unprecedented step of presenting the Company with not one but two last, best, and final offers in a good faith attempt to reach an agreement and conclude negotiations.
Unlike the Union, the only real movement CVS has made on its nearly three-years-old contract proposal has been to present a regressive proposal to cut new hire wage rates by offering a “new grad” wage rate. With this absurd backward movement, CVS is sending the message that it believes its overworked pharmacists are being overpaid—a ludicrous notion which Local 727 strongly opposes.
Additionally, despite Local 727’s firm stance that it is unwilling to consider any reduction in Union jobs, CVS has refused to make any movement on its proposal to eliminate PICS from the bargaining unit. When questioned by the Union bargaining committee on its motivation for such a proposal, CVS management has admitted that it would like to have a Company watchdog in each pharmacy to keep an eye on Union members.
In addition to stalling negotiations by refusing to make constructive movement on any proposals, CVS has also delayed bargaining by not providing the Union with meeting dates in a timely manner. To date, CVS has not contacted the Union or provided dates for bargaining since the parties last met on January 24.
Local 727 would like to thank the brave pharmacists who came forward to report CVS’s deplorable and unlawful behavior. CVS has seen how strongly united and unrelenting Local 727 members and the Union bargaining committee are in their demand for a fair contract—these atrocious actions appear to be an angry response to that solidarity and a feeble attempt by the Company to divide pharmacists.
If YOU have experienced similar harassment, if CVS management has attempted to intimidate you in any way, or if the Company has approached and attempted to directly deal with you, contact Business Representative Melissa Senatore IMMEDIATELY.
Members wanting to report a contract violation or with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
List of ULP Charges Against CVS Grows as Local 727 Files New Charge with the NLRB
02.26.19 – Teamsters Local 727 has filed a new unfair labor practice charge with two allegations against CVS in response to the Company’s failure to provide information and its failure to bargain in good faith over the two step verification process. Under federal law, CVS is obligated to maintain the status quo while negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement are ongoing with Teamsters Local 727.
Despite the Union having filed several ULP charges in the past three years for similar attempts by CVS, the Company has clearly not learned its lesson.
“The Company’s blatant disregard for federal law is abhorrent and shows a complete lack of respect for their pharmacists—employees who have been working without a contract for more than three years because of CVS’s bad faith bargaining,” stated John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
This new charge joins several other ULP charges filed by the Union following CVS’s bad faith bargaining during the parties’ last bargaining session on January 24th. All charges are now under investigation by Region 13 of the NLRB.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Despite the Union having filed several ULP charges in the past three years for similar attempts by CVS, the Company has clearly not learned its lesson.
“The Company’s blatant disregard for federal law is abhorrent and shows a complete lack of respect for their pharmacists—employees who have been working without a contract for more than three years because of CVS’s bad faith bargaining,” stated John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
This new charge joins several other ULP charges filed by the Union following CVS’s bad faith bargaining during the parties’ last bargaining session on January 24th. All charges are now under investigation by Region 13 of the NLRB.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Shows Their Hand, Company Declines Interest Arbitration
02.06.19 – CVS has declined Teamsters Local 727’s proposal to enter interest arbitration to settle negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement covering Chicagoland pharmacists.
The Union proposed interest arbitration during the parties most recent bargaining session on January 24th after CVS presented a new regressive proposal that could cut new hire wage rates. By entering interest arbitration, Local 727 and CVS would each be given the opportunity to present their proposals to an impartial third-party arbitrator who would then evaluate the fairness of each proposal and issue a binding final decision on the unresolved articles.
Unlike Local 727, CVS’s unwillingness to defend its recent offer in interest arbitration only confirms the Union’s suspicions that the Company itself does not believe it is a fair proposal.
Though CVS may not be willing to stand by its latest proposal, it will be required to defend its actions to the National Labor Relations Board. Local 727 filed several unfair labor practice charges after the parties’ last bargaining session as a result of the Company’s actions. All charges are pending with Region 13 of the NLRB.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
The Union proposed interest arbitration during the parties most recent bargaining session on January 24th after CVS presented a new regressive proposal that could cut new hire wage rates. By entering interest arbitration, Local 727 and CVS would each be given the opportunity to present their proposals to an impartial third-party arbitrator who would then evaluate the fairness of each proposal and issue a binding final decision on the unresolved articles.
Unlike Local 727, CVS’s unwillingness to defend its recent offer in interest arbitration only confirms the Union’s suspicions that the Company itself does not believe it is a fair proposal.
Though CVS may not be willing to stand by its latest proposal, it will be required to defend its actions to the National Labor Relations Board. Local 727 filed several unfair labor practice charges after the parties’ last bargaining session as a result of the Company’s actions. All charges are pending with Region 13 of the NLRB.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Proves It Doesn’t Care About its Employees by Making Outrageous Regressive Proposal
01.24.19 – CVS management stooped to an unparalleled low as negotiations resumed today between the Company and Teamsters Local 727. Not only has CVS’s delay tactics dragged negotiations into a fourth calendar year, but the Company’s latest regressive offer has made it clear that the Company is bargaining in bad faith with no intention of reaching an agreement.
In November, the Union bargaining committee rolled its sleeves up and took the unprecedented step of presenting CVS with two last, best, and final offers (LBFO). The LBFOs demonstrated enormous movement on the Union’s part and were a good-faith attempt to reach an agreement. Despite ample time to review and craft a response, CVS arrived to the parties’ December bargaining session empty-handed. At that time, Local 727 demanded management arrive to today’s meeting with the Company’s own LBFO.
CVS arrived today with no such offer.
CVS management instead opened negotiations with a new regressive proposal to cut new hire wage rates by offering a “new grad” wage rate of $54. While management claimed the current market “justified” their demeaning offer, CVS, unsurprisingly, was unprepared and unable to produce any market studies to back-up this claim. As one Union bargaining committee member correctly observed, such a wage rate is 22% less than what other union pharmacists performing the same work receive.
“This latest offer is the clearest indicator yet that CVS management places zero value on the hard work and contributions of its own workforce,” state Melissa Senatore, Local 727 Business Representative for CVS pharmacists. “Insulting doesn’t even begin to describe this offer, it’s despicable and CVS should be ashamed.”
Local 727 rejected CVS’s proposal and resubmitted the Union’s prior LBFOs. Additionally, the Union proposed the parties enter interest arbitration to settle the contract. Such a step would allow both Local 727 and CVS to present their proposals to an impartial third-party arbitrator who would then evaluate each proposal and issue a binding final decision on each unresolved contract matter.
Local 727 also filed several unfair labor practice charges against CVS this afternoon as a result of its actions. All charges are pending with Region 13 of the National Labor Relations Board.
“CVS cannot delay any longer. It will now need to defend its action and await judgement from the Board,” stated Senatore.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
In November, the Union bargaining committee rolled its sleeves up and took the unprecedented step of presenting CVS with two last, best, and final offers (LBFO). The LBFOs demonstrated enormous movement on the Union’s part and were a good-faith attempt to reach an agreement. Despite ample time to review and craft a response, CVS arrived to the parties’ December bargaining session empty-handed. At that time, Local 727 demanded management arrive to today’s meeting with the Company’s own LBFO.
CVS arrived today with no such offer.
CVS management instead opened negotiations with a new regressive proposal to cut new hire wage rates by offering a “new grad” wage rate of $54. While management claimed the current market “justified” their demeaning offer, CVS, unsurprisingly, was unprepared and unable to produce any market studies to back-up this claim. As one Union bargaining committee member correctly observed, such a wage rate is 22% less than what other union pharmacists performing the same work receive.
“This latest offer is the clearest indicator yet that CVS management places zero value on the hard work and contributions of its own workforce,” state Melissa Senatore, Local 727 Business Representative for CVS pharmacists. “Insulting doesn’t even begin to describe this offer, it’s despicable and CVS should be ashamed.”
Local 727 rejected CVS’s proposal and resubmitted the Union’s prior LBFOs. Additionally, the Union proposed the parties enter interest arbitration to settle the contract. Such a step would allow both Local 727 and CVS to present their proposals to an impartial third-party arbitrator who would then evaluate each proposal and issue a binding final decision on each unresolved contract matter.
Local 727 also filed several unfair labor practice charges against CVS this afternoon as a result of its actions. All charges are pending with Region 13 of the National Labor Relations Board.
“CVS cannot delay any longer. It will now need to defend its action and await judgement from the Board,” stated Senatore.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Local 727 and CVS to Resume Negotiations on January 24th
01.07.19 – The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee and CVS management will resume negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement on Thursday, January 24, 2019.
When the parties last met on Monday, December 10, 2018, CVS was unprepared with a counterproposal to Local 727’s last, best, and final offer (LBFO) and persisted in wasting valuable time discussing a non-contract issue.
In response, the Union bargaining committee reiterated to CVS that such behavior is disrespectful to hardworking CVS pharmacists and may have a negative impact on management’s post-bargaining relationship with their dedicated workforce. Additionally, Local 727 demanded CVS come prepared to the next bargaining session with a comprehensive response to the Union’s LBFO.
Local 727 expects CVS representatives to arrive to the parties’ next meeting with a counterproposal and prepared to bargain in good faith with the Union.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
When the parties last met on Monday, December 10, 2018, CVS was unprepared with a counterproposal to Local 727’s last, best, and final offer (LBFO) and persisted in wasting valuable time discussing a non-contract issue.
In response, the Union bargaining committee reiterated to CVS that such behavior is disrespectful to hardworking CVS pharmacists and may have a negative impact on management’s post-bargaining relationship with their dedicated workforce. Additionally, Local 727 demanded CVS come prepared to the next bargaining session with a comprehensive response to the Union’s LBFO.
Local 727 expects CVS representatives to arrive to the parties’ next meeting with a counterproposal and prepared to bargain in good faith with the Union.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Arrives to Negotiations Empty-Handed
12.12.18 – The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee and CVS management met once again Monday, December 10th, to continue negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement. While Local 727 was prepared to discuss CVS’s response to the last, best, and final offer (LBFO) presented by the Union during the parties’ previous bargaining session, CVS arrived to the meeting empty-handed.
CVS was nether prepared with a counterproposal nor with its own LBFO. To make matters worse, rather than responding to Local 727’s good faith effort to reach an agreement, CVS wasted more than an hour of the bargaining session discussing a non-contract issue.
Disgusted by CVS’s apathy and seeming indifference to the hard work of their dedicated pharmacists, Local 727 articulated to management how their lack of action is an insult to their employees and only serves to worsen the Company’s relationship with its workforce. Additionally, Local 727 demanded CVS representatives come prepared with a response or LBFO to the parties’ next bargaining session.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS was nether prepared with a counterproposal nor with its own LBFO. To make matters worse, rather than responding to Local 727’s good faith effort to reach an agreement, CVS wasted more than an hour of the bargaining session discussing a non-contract issue.
Disgusted by CVS’s apathy and seeming indifference to the hard work of their dedicated pharmacists, Local 727 articulated to management how their lack of action is an insult to their employees and only serves to worsen the Company’s relationship with its workforce. Additionally, Local 727 demanded CVS representatives come prepared with a response or LBFO to the parties’ next bargaining session.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Local 727 ULP Charge Results in CVS Adjusting Behavior During Negotiations
12.04.18 – Teamsters Local 727 has withdrawn the Unfair Labor Practice charge filed against CVS in September as a result of the Company’s abrupt change in behavior. The Union initially filed the ULP charge with the National Labor Relations Board in response to CVS’s bad faith delay tactics throughout negotiations and refusal to provide the Union with bargaining dates in a timely fashion.
After Local 727 filed the ULP charge this fall, CVS representatives suddenly become more responsive to the Union’s requests for meeting dates.
“Such a sudden alteration in behavior after more than two years of negotiations seems to suggest CVS could not justify its past actions and had no choice but to amend its conduct in order to present a defense for the charge,” said Melissa Senatore, Business Representative for Local 727’s CVS members. “It is unfortunate that it takes the Union filing a charge with the Labor Board in order for CVS to do the right thing.”
While the Union’s September charge has been withdrawn, Local 727 retained the right to refile the ULP charge should CVS revert back to its prior tactics. Local 727 will continue to hold CVS accountable to its obligations under federal labor law and will pursue further charges if necessary.
The Union bargaining committee and CVS are set to meet next on Monday, December 10th. During the parties’ last bargaining session, Local 727 demanded CVS arrive to the upcoming meeting with a last, best, and final offer.
Local 727 will continue to update members on the progress of negotiations.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
After Local 727 filed the ULP charge this fall, CVS representatives suddenly become more responsive to the Union’s requests for meeting dates.
“Such a sudden alteration in behavior after more than two years of negotiations seems to suggest CVS could not justify its past actions and had no choice but to amend its conduct in order to present a defense for the charge,” said Melissa Senatore, Business Representative for Local 727’s CVS members. “It is unfortunate that it takes the Union filing a charge with the Labor Board in order for CVS to do the right thing.”
While the Union’s September charge has been withdrawn, Local 727 retained the right to refile the ULP charge should CVS revert back to its prior tactics. Local 727 will continue to hold CVS accountable to its obligations under federal labor law and will pursue further charges if necessary.
The Union bargaining committee and CVS are set to meet next on Monday, December 10th. During the parties’ last bargaining session, Local 727 demanded CVS arrive to the upcoming meeting with a last, best, and final offer.
Local 727 will continue to update members on the progress of negotiations.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Teamsters Local 727 Presents CVS with Last, Best, Final Offer for Chicagoland Pharmacist Contract
11.19.18 – With months of CVS refusing to make any real movement to reach an agreement, Teamsters Local 727 has taken the bold step of presenting management with the union’s own last, best, and final offer (LBFO) during the parties’ latest bargaining session on Wednesday, November 14th.
The Local 727 bargaining committee’s LBFO included full retroactivity to the previous contract’s expiration on May 7, 2016 and 2% wage raises each year for full-time and part-time pharmacists through May 7, 2021. CVS management rejected this offer.
The union also presented a second option to CVS in an effort to reach an agreement. Local 727’s second offer included a large, immediate raise of 6% upon ratification in lieu of retroactivity and 2% wage raises each year through May 7, 2021.
Local 727’s LBFO also included provisions which:
CVS management requested time to review the offer and alluded to a possible counterproposal. However, after four hours CVS returned to the bargaining table with nothing to show. CVS neither produced a counter to the union’s proposal, nor the company’s own LBFO.
While CVS has claimed for more than a year that the company is able to make movement, management continues to refuse to state what that movement might be. Instead, CVS delays, wastes time, and refuses to bargain in good faith with Local 727.
“In good faith, the union bargaining committee presented two pathways to reaching an agreement, but CVS refused to step-up and bargain in good faith,” stated Melissa Senatore, Business Representative for Local 727’s CVS members. “CVS’s actions are an insult to the hardworking pharmacists who have helped this company to flourish and seem to indicate the company does not want to do what is right and reach an agreement.”
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee and CVS will meet again on December 10th.
“Local 727 expects CVS to arrive prepared with its own last, best, and final offer.,” added Senatore. “Pharmacists have waited long enough. They will not wait any longer.”
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
The Local 727 bargaining committee’s LBFO included full retroactivity to the previous contract’s expiration on May 7, 2016 and 2% wage raises each year for full-time and part-time pharmacists through May 7, 2021. CVS management rejected this offer.
The union also presented a second option to CVS in an effort to reach an agreement. Local 727’s second offer included a large, immediate raise of 6% upon ratification in lieu of retroactivity and 2% wage raises each year through May 7, 2021.
Local 727’s LBFO also included provisions which:
- Redefined a full-time employee as anyone working thirty or more hours each week, guaranteeing no employees will experience a reduction in benefits.
- Defined clear parameters for pharmacist rest breaks and state pharmacists’ breaks are only to be interrupted for a patient emergency.
- Removed CVS management’s right to establish arbitrary cluster groups for vacation bidding and introduce a fair, strictly seniority-based week-by-week bidding system.
- Maintained current holiday contract language for all current employees, but removes restrictions on holiday scheduling for pharmacists hired after the agreement’s ratification date.
- Specified that full-time pharmacists will receive holiday pay based upon the number of hours they would normally be scheduled to work on the day of the holiday.
- Maintained the bargaining unit’s participation in the Teamsters Local 727 Legal and Educational Assistance Benefit Funds.
- Guaranteed a pharmacist on pregnancy leave will receive her full salary for the first four weeks of FMLA leave.
CVS management requested time to review the offer and alluded to a possible counterproposal. However, after four hours CVS returned to the bargaining table with nothing to show. CVS neither produced a counter to the union’s proposal, nor the company’s own LBFO.
While CVS has claimed for more than a year that the company is able to make movement, management continues to refuse to state what that movement might be. Instead, CVS delays, wastes time, and refuses to bargain in good faith with Local 727.
“In good faith, the union bargaining committee presented two pathways to reaching an agreement, but CVS refused to step-up and bargain in good faith,” stated Melissa Senatore, Business Representative for Local 727’s CVS members. “CVS’s actions are an insult to the hardworking pharmacists who have helped this company to flourish and seem to indicate the company does not want to do what is right and reach an agreement.”
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee and CVS will meet again on December 10th.
“Local 727 expects CVS to arrive prepared with its own last, best, and final offer.,” added Senatore. “Pharmacists have waited long enough. They will not wait any longer.”
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Claims Abysmal Behavior During Negotiations is “Not Personal”
10.09.18 – CVS sparked outrage last Wednesday during negotiations with Teamsters Local 727 when the Company’s negotiators claimed their stingy contract proposals and disrespectful behavior throughout negotiations and mediation—processes which CVS has dragged out for more than two years—are “not personal, just business.”
The Local 727 bargaining committee made it extremely clear that if CVS does not believe negotiating collective bargaining agreements is personal, they are flat out wrong. For CVS negotiators to suggest their lack of bargaining in good faith, feet dragging, and wasting of time is a business strategy, is a slap in the face to the hundreds of hardworking pharmacists who spend more time in a year working for this Company than they do with their loved ones.
Local 727 emphasized that each and every contract clause has a real impact on pharmacists and their families. Wages are personal. Not only does CVS’s proposals include no retroactivity for its dedicated pharmacists who have spent 525 days working without a contract, the Company has yet to explain why it feel its employees do not deserve a wage increase.
Further exacerbating the situation, CVS yet again wasted time during negotiations presenting a document which indicated no movement from the Company, but rather summarized their previous proposals. In essence, CVS paid to fly an expensive corporate attorney to Illinois just to waste time and disrespect their employees.
Despite CVS’s insulting behavior, the Company did come to the bargaining table prepared to set a future bargaining date with the Local 727 bargaining committee. It appears the Union’s most recent filing of an unfair labor practice charge against CVS has resonated with the Company. The parties are scheduled to meet next on November 14th.
Local 727 will be reaching out to pharmacists in the coming days to discuss potential next steps.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
The Local 727 bargaining committee made it extremely clear that if CVS does not believe negotiating collective bargaining agreements is personal, they are flat out wrong. For CVS negotiators to suggest their lack of bargaining in good faith, feet dragging, and wasting of time is a business strategy, is a slap in the face to the hundreds of hardworking pharmacists who spend more time in a year working for this Company than they do with their loved ones.
Local 727 emphasized that each and every contract clause has a real impact on pharmacists and their families. Wages are personal. Not only does CVS’s proposals include no retroactivity for its dedicated pharmacists who have spent 525 days working without a contract, the Company has yet to explain why it feel its employees do not deserve a wage increase.
Further exacerbating the situation, CVS yet again wasted time during negotiations presenting a document which indicated no movement from the Company, but rather summarized their previous proposals. In essence, CVS paid to fly an expensive corporate attorney to Illinois just to waste time and disrespect their employees.
Despite CVS’s insulting behavior, the Company did come to the bargaining table prepared to set a future bargaining date with the Local 727 bargaining committee. It appears the Union’s most recent filing of an unfair labor practice charge against CVS has resonated with the Company. The parties are scheduled to meet next on November 14th.
Local 727 will be reaching out to pharmacists in the coming days to discuss potential next steps.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Disrespectful, Dismissive, Delays, CVS’s Bad Faith Bargaining Continues
CHICAGO, September 26, 2018 – Teamsters Local 727 and CVS (NYSE: CVS) resumed negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement Friday, September 21st, for the first time since Local 727 demanded a return to face-to-face negotiations. With no mediator to hide behind, CVS negotiators were forced to face their employees and speak directly to the Union.
In light of CVS’s bad faith refusal to indicate what movement could be made on the Company’s last contract proposals from 2016, the Local 727 bargaining committee made a good faith attempt to advance bargaining by opening negotiations with a new, comprehensive proposal that demonstrated significant movement from the Union.
Following Local 727’s presentation of its substantial and well thought through proposals, CVS called for a break in negotiations at approximately 10 a.m. to review the proposals. In order to avoid further delays, the Union asked CVS approximately how long the Company would need to review and respond. CVS offered no estimate and, after pressing by the Local 727 bargaining committee, claimed they did not know when they would be able to provide a return time to the Union.
CVS then spent approximately three hours allegedly preparing a response to the Union’s proposals. Ultimately, the Company returned to the table and made no real movement. The Union remained steadfast in its desire to reach an agreement and prepared yet another written counterproposal which sought to bridge the gap between some of the parties’ proposals. While Local 727 was drafting its response, the Company suddenly sprung on the Union a hard stop deadline. Despite receiving less than half an hour’s notice, the Union presented a complete counterproposal to the Company and prepared for further discussion. CVS, however, took the response and abruptly left negotiations previously stating that they were “not missing our flights for this.”
“Local 727 was prepared and willing to remain at the negotiation table for as long as it took to reach an agreement. CVS gave no indication, neither while scheduling this meeting nor during morning negotiations, that there would be a hard stopping time,” emphasized Teamsters Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore. “The Union will not be rushed by this Company’s arbitrary deadlines. We demand CVS negotiators show the same level of concern for their hardworking pharmacists as they do for their travel plans.”
Regardless of the Union bargaining committee’s multiple attempts to engage CVS in meaningful negotiations, the Company’s representatives’ responses were terse and disrespectful. Local 727 reminded CVS that such dismissive behavior is damaging to the Company’s relationship with its employees and will have a lasting impact on post-bargaining meetings between the Union and management.
Local 727 has filed an unfair labor practice charge against CVS over its delay tactics. The charge is currently pending with the National Labor Relations Board.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
# # #
CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-7500
In light of CVS’s bad faith refusal to indicate what movement could be made on the Company’s last contract proposals from 2016, the Local 727 bargaining committee made a good faith attempt to advance bargaining by opening negotiations with a new, comprehensive proposal that demonstrated significant movement from the Union.
Following Local 727’s presentation of its substantial and well thought through proposals, CVS called for a break in negotiations at approximately 10 a.m. to review the proposals. In order to avoid further delays, the Union asked CVS approximately how long the Company would need to review and respond. CVS offered no estimate and, after pressing by the Local 727 bargaining committee, claimed they did not know when they would be able to provide a return time to the Union.
CVS then spent approximately three hours allegedly preparing a response to the Union’s proposals. Ultimately, the Company returned to the table and made no real movement. The Union remained steadfast in its desire to reach an agreement and prepared yet another written counterproposal which sought to bridge the gap between some of the parties’ proposals. While Local 727 was drafting its response, the Company suddenly sprung on the Union a hard stop deadline. Despite receiving less than half an hour’s notice, the Union presented a complete counterproposal to the Company and prepared for further discussion. CVS, however, took the response and abruptly left negotiations previously stating that they were “not missing our flights for this.”
“Local 727 was prepared and willing to remain at the negotiation table for as long as it took to reach an agreement. CVS gave no indication, neither while scheduling this meeting nor during morning negotiations, that there would be a hard stopping time,” emphasized Teamsters Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore. “The Union will not be rushed by this Company’s arbitrary deadlines. We demand CVS negotiators show the same level of concern for their hardworking pharmacists as they do for their travel plans.”
Regardless of the Union bargaining committee’s multiple attempts to engage CVS in meaningful negotiations, the Company’s representatives’ responses were terse and disrespectful. Local 727 reminded CVS that such dismissive behavior is damaging to the Company’s relationship with its employees and will have a lasting impact on post-bargaining meetings between the Union and management.
Local 727 has filed an unfair labor practice charge against CVS over its delay tactics. The charge is currently pending with the National Labor Relations Board.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
# # #
CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-7500
Local 727 Files New Unfair Labor Practice Charge Against CVS
CHICAGO, September 7, 2018 – Today, Teamsters Local 727 filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge against CVS (NYSE: CVS) as a result of the Company’s bad faith bargaining after negotiators continued delay tactics and refused to provide the Union with multiple dates for negotiations.
Local 727 demanded a return to face-to-face negotiations after nearly two years of CVS delaying progress in Federal Mediation and refusing to speak to the CVS Bargaining Committee. Among other delay tactics employed by the Company, CVS stalled negotiations by refusing to set dates to meet during mediation sessions and failing to timely respond to both the Union’s and the mediators proposed dates.
In order to prevent any further delays, Local 727 asked CVS negotiators to provide several dates for face-to-face negotiations when the parties ended mediation. The Company responded with ONE date and completely disregarded the Union’s request to set at least two meetings.
When the Union renewed its request for a minimum of one additional date, CVS’s lead negotiator outright refused, implying meeting more frequently would “simply waste more time…”
In actuality, CVS has wasted over 160 days by failing to promptly respond to requests for and proposals of meeting dates. Because of this, more than 700 days total has elapsed between meetings since the Union requested the parties begin mediation.
“CVS’s unwillingness to schedule meetings in advance, and more than one meeting at a time, not only disrespects the hardworking pharmacists who have been without a contract for more than two years,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 727, “it clearly shows the Company is not bargaining in good faith or putting forth any effort to reach a deal as the Union.”
With Local 727 filing a new ULP charge, CVS will need to justify its behavior to the National Labor Relations Board. It is the Union’s hope that the NLRB will determine that these actions by CVS were in bad faith and order CVS negotiators to provide more dates and meet more frequently.
“727 Pharmacists have run out of patience,” added Coli. “It’s time for CVS to show the same care for their employees as they show for their profits.”
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee and CVS will hold their next collective bargaining meeting on Friday, September 21st. As of writing, the Union has received no other dates from CVS.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
# # #
CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-7500
Local 727 demanded a return to face-to-face negotiations after nearly two years of CVS delaying progress in Federal Mediation and refusing to speak to the CVS Bargaining Committee. Among other delay tactics employed by the Company, CVS stalled negotiations by refusing to set dates to meet during mediation sessions and failing to timely respond to both the Union’s and the mediators proposed dates.
In order to prevent any further delays, Local 727 asked CVS negotiators to provide several dates for face-to-face negotiations when the parties ended mediation. The Company responded with ONE date and completely disregarded the Union’s request to set at least two meetings.
When the Union renewed its request for a minimum of one additional date, CVS’s lead negotiator outright refused, implying meeting more frequently would “simply waste more time…”
In actuality, CVS has wasted over 160 days by failing to promptly respond to requests for and proposals of meeting dates. Because of this, more than 700 days total has elapsed between meetings since the Union requested the parties begin mediation.
“CVS’s unwillingness to schedule meetings in advance, and more than one meeting at a time, not only disrespects the hardworking pharmacists who have been without a contract for more than two years,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 727, “it clearly shows the Company is not bargaining in good faith or putting forth any effort to reach a deal as the Union.”
With Local 727 filing a new ULP charge, CVS will need to justify its behavior to the National Labor Relations Board. It is the Union’s hope that the NLRB will determine that these actions by CVS were in bad faith and order CVS negotiators to provide more dates and meet more frequently.
“727 Pharmacists have run out of patience,” added Coli. “It’s time for CVS to show the same care for their employees as they show for their profits.”
The Teamsters Local 727 bargaining committee and CVS will hold their next collective bargaining meeting on Friday, September 21st. As of writing, the Union has received no other dates from CVS.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
# # #
CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-7500
Teamsters Local 727 Demands Return to Face-to-Face Negotiations Citing CVS’s Abuse of the Mediation Process
CHICAGO, July 31, 2018 – Teamsters Local 727 has demanded a return to face-to-face negotiations with CVS (NYSE: CVS) following nearly two years of Company negotiators stalling and refusing to bargaining in good faith during Federal Mediation.
Following six months of negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement, Local 727 and CVS began Federal Mediation on September 22, 2016. Despite the Union’s willingness to bargaining in good faith, CVS has repeatedly delayed progress by ignoring requests for meeting dates, refusing to make any movement from the Company’s 2016 proposals or explain what movement it can make, and declining to provide Local 727 with a last, best, and final offer.
Stooping to a new low, CVS recently refused Local 727’s requests in the last two mediation sessions to merely meet face-to-face to discuss both Parties’ positions. As such, it has been more than four months since Company representatives have even spoken directly to their employees on the bargaining committee during mediation.
“Pharmacists have been working without a contract and without raises for more than two years because CVS has continued to employ delay tactics,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “It appears that CVS has been using the mediator as a shield to avoid hearing from their employees and having to respond. The Union will not allow this blatant abuse of the mediation process to continue. Things are going to change.”
In every negotiation prior to this, Local 727 and CVS have been able to reach tentative agreements quickly and efficiently. Now, however, the Company has hired a new lead negotiator who has stalled negotiations by refusing to move off of a proposal to essentially convert bargaining unit positions into non-union positions.
“The Union has made it clear to CVS that cutting bargaining unit positions is a non-starter for our members and securing bargaining unit work is a top priority for this group,” said Coli. “If the Company continues to fixate on this unrealistic demand, and ignores requests to meet with the Union bargaining committee, they’re going to have a major problem on their hands. Pharmacists are tired of CVS’s games—they will not sit idly by while the Company refuses to treat them with respect and reach a fair deal.”
Teamsters Local 727 has demanded negotiation dates from the Company. CVS has not yet responded.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
# # #
CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-7500
Following six months of negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement, Local 727 and CVS began Federal Mediation on September 22, 2016. Despite the Union’s willingness to bargaining in good faith, CVS has repeatedly delayed progress by ignoring requests for meeting dates, refusing to make any movement from the Company’s 2016 proposals or explain what movement it can make, and declining to provide Local 727 with a last, best, and final offer.
Stooping to a new low, CVS recently refused Local 727’s requests in the last two mediation sessions to merely meet face-to-face to discuss both Parties’ positions. As such, it has been more than four months since Company representatives have even spoken directly to their employees on the bargaining committee during mediation.
“Pharmacists have been working without a contract and without raises for more than two years because CVS has continued to employ delay tactics,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “It appears that CVS has been using the mediator as a shield to avoid hearing from their employees and having to respond. The Union will not allow this blatant abuse of the mediation process to continue. Things are going to change.”
In every negotiation prior to this, Local 727 and CVS have been able to reach tentative agreements quickly and efficiently. Now, however, the Company has hired a new lead negotiator who has stalled negotiations by refusing to move off of a proposal to essentially convert bargaining unit positions into non-union positions.
“The Union has made it clear to CVS that cutting bargaining unit positions is a non-starter for our members and securing bargaining unit work is a top priority for this group,” said Coli. “If the Company continues to fixate on this unrealistic demand, and ignores requests to meet with the Union bargaining committee, they’re going to have a major problem on their hands. Pharmacists are tired of CVS’s games—they will not sit idly by while the Company refuses to treat them with respect and reach a fair deal.”
Teamsters Local 727 has demanded negotiation dates from the Company. CVS has not yet responded.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 hardworking men and women throughout the Chicago area.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.
# # #
CONTACT: Melissa Senatore, (847) 696-7500
CVS Stalls, Wastes Time, Refuses to Speak to Its Employee Bargaining Committee Members
07.18.18 - Mediation resumed between Teamsters Local 727 and CVS management on Tuesday, June 26, 2018. While Local 727 approached last month’s meeting prepared to negotiate in good faith a new collective bargaining agreement, CVS persisted in wasting time by refusing to work constructively with the Union bargaining committee.
To open the latest mediation session, the Local 727 bargaining committee renewed its request to sit face-to-face with CVS management to openly discuss the multiple outstanding contract proposals and merely requested that CVS explain the need for its proposals and why it cannot agree to the Union’s.
As it has done for nearly two years, CVS refused to explain what movement it can make. Likewise, management continued to stall negotiations by refusing to provide the Union with a last, best, and final offer.
“The Union has been clear and open in every mediation session about the potential movement it could make and its willingness to work with the federal mediator to come to a reasonable agreement,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 727, “the same cannot be said for CVS management.”
Local 727 requested several future bargaining dates, including a date during a week when CVS representatives were already scheduled to be in Illinois for an arbitration. The Union is still awaiting a response from CVS management.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected]
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
To open the latest mediation session, the Local 727 bargaining committee renewed its request to sit face-to-face with CVS management to openly discuss the multiple outstanding contract proposals and merely requested that CVS explain the need for its proposals and why it cannot agree to the Union’s.
As it has done for nearly two years, CVS refused to explain what movement it can make. Likewise, management continued to stall negotiations by refusing to provide the Union with a last, best, and final offer.
“The Union has been clear and open in every mediation session about the potential movement it could make and its willingness to work with the federal mediator to come to a reasonable agreement,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 727, “the same cannot be said for CVS management.”
Local 727 requested several future bargaining dates, including a date during a week when CVS representatives were already scheduled to be in Illinois for an arbitration. The Union is still awaiting a response from CVS management.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected]
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Bargaining Summary
03.27.18 - Since September 22, 2016, when federal mediation began between Teamsters Local 727 and CVS, there have been numerous negotiating sessions in which a new collective bargaining agreement could be reached. In each session, the Union has shown a willingness to bargain in good faith. In contrast, CVS has pursued a strategy of delay whereby it refuses to respond to or discuss Local 727’s proposals and, instead, recuses itself to a conference room without engaging with the Union.
In an effort to keep members updated, here is a brief summary of each of the bargaining sessions with corresponding dates. To read the bargaining updates in their entirety, please scroll down.
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
In an effort to keep members updated, here is a brief summary of each of the bargaining sessions with corresponding dates. To read the bargaining updates in their entirety, please scroll down.
- September 22, 2016 – Federal mediation begins. CVS continues to propose to eliminate PICS from the bargaining unit, which Local 727 flatly rejected.
- May 23, 2017 – The federal mediator created a “supposal” with a number of provisions, including a 2.75% wage increase for pharmacists and retroactivity back to May 5, 2016. CVS rejected the supposal and made no movement from its November 2016 proposal, which included a 1.8% wage increase with no retroactivity and removal of PICS. The Company also made a new regressive proposal to renegotiate the entire contract if pharmacy legislation is passed during the term of the current agreement.
- July 26, 2017 – CVS wasted time by not responding to Local 727’s request for information. CVS began negotiations by resubmitting and discussing two prior proposals it had already presented to the Union and the Union clearly rejected. CVS ended talks early despite the Union’s willingness to continue until a fair agreement was reached.
- October 3, 2017 – Local 727 began negotiations by rejecting CVS’s proposal to remove PICS from the bargaining unit. CVS continued to waste time, never responded to the Union’s latest proposal, and offered no movement. Local 727 also brought up the new mandatory counseling law and asked if CVS had a plan in place to comply with the new law. CVS said current break policies and procedures are sufficient. The Union subsequently filed a grievance over this issue.
- December 13, 2017 – CVS again makes no movement from its 15-month-old proposal which, among other things, would grant CVS the right to eliminate PICS from the bargaining unit. CVS also failed to provide dates for the next negotiation meeting. Following the meeting, the Union reached out to both CVS and the mediator. CVS didn’t solidify the next negotiation session (March 20th) until February 9th.
- March 20, 2018 – Even with a newly appointed vice president of labor relations and another new CVS representative present at the meeting, CVS was still unwilling to discuss the Union’s proposals on wage increases and retroactivity or explain the movement CVS has implied it can make.
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Continues to Waste Union’s Time During Latest Mediation Session
03.21.18 - The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management held another mediation session for a new collective bargaining agreement on March 20, 2018. While the Union was willing and prepared to negotiate in good faith, CVS continued its delay tactics.
When asked to explain the Union’s outstanding proposals and/or why it could not agree to them, CVS management would not explain or address the Union’s outstanding proposals and instead indicated it would discuss a narrower topic and suggested Team Leaders. Though the Union expressed its willingness to discuss this topic along with wages and retroactivity, CVS was unwilling to respond to the Union’s proposals on wage increases and retroactivity.
Additionally, CVS appeared disingenuous with its suggestion to discuss Team Leaders, as CVS later indicated that it actually had nothing to say regarding the topic and refused to explain or answer the Union’s questions on wages and retroactivity.
Growing exceedingly frustrated with CVS’s cowardice and unwillingness to face the Union bargaining committee, the Union took today’s session as an opportunity to speak directly to CVS’s full committee which included, for the first time ever, the newly appointed Vice President of Labor Relations Jean Frazier and CVS representative Joe Haas.
The Union stated, “We are incredibly disappointed with CVS’s refusal to provide an explanation as to why it cannot accept the Union’s proposals or identify the movement it has indicated it can make. Frankly, it is disrespectful. This seems like another day CVS has come to the Union offices to do nothing.”
A Union bargaining unit member added that, “members were disappointed with CVS. Pharmacists work so hard and respect their jobs and CVS, but it doesn’t seem like it is being reciprocated by the Company.”
CVS provided no response to the these comments.
The Union requested future bargaining dates and CVS refused to provide them during bargaining. Instead, CVS indicated it would take the request under advisement.
To keep pharmacists updated on this latest round of negotiations and to address any questions and concerns about next steps, Local 727 has scheduled a meeting for Sunday, April 15 at 7:00 p.m. at the Local 727 Meeting Hall, 1300 W. Higgins Rd., Park Ridge, IL 60068.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
When asked to explain the Union’s outstanding proposals and/or why it could not agree to them, CVS management would not explain or address the Union’s outstanding proposals and instead indicated it would discuss a narrower topic and suggested Team Leaders. Though the Union expressed its willingness to discuss this topic along with wages and retroactivity, CVS was unwilling to respond to the Union’s proposals on wage increases and retroactivity.
Additionally, CVS appeared disingenuous with its suggestion to discuss Team Leaders, as CVS later indicated that it actually had nothing to say regarding the topic and refused to explain or answer the Union’s questions on wages and retroactivity.
Growing exceedingly frustrated with CVS’s cowardice and unwillingness to face the Union bargaining committee, the Union took today’s session as an opportunity to speak directly to CVS’s full committee which included, for the first time ever, the newly appointed Vice President of Labor Relations Jean Frazier and CVS representative Joe Haas.
The Union stated, “We are incredibly disappointed with CVS’s refusal to provide an explanation as to why it cannot accept the Union’s proposals or identify the movement it has indicated it can make. Frankly, it is disrespectful. This seems like another day CVS has come to the Union offices to do nothing.”
A Union bargaining unit member added that, “members were disappointed with CVS. Pharmacists work so hard and respect their jobs and CVS, but it doesn’t seem like it is being reciprocated by the Company.”
CVS provided no response to the these comments.
The Union requested future bargaining dates and CVS refused to provide them during bargaining. Instead, CVS indicated it would take the request under advisement.
To keep pharmacists updated on this latest round of negotiations and to address any questions and concerns about next steps, Local 727 has scheduled a meeting for Sunday, April 15 at 7:00 p.m. at the Local 727 Meeting Hall, 1300 W. Higgins Rd., Park Ridge, IL 60068.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Teamsters Local 727 and CVS Negotiation Update
02.07.18 - The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management have held numerous mediation sessions for a new collective bargaining agreement. While the Union has sought in each session to reach a fair deal, CVS refuses to negotiate in good faith, instead wasting everybody’s time and accomplishing nothing by the end of the day’s session. In fact, CVS has yet to make any movement from its September 2016 proposal, while also refusing to provide the Union with a last, best and final offer. By not making a last, best and final offer, CVS is, in essence, indicating that it has movement to make, but has yet to indicate what that movement is. Whereas, the Union in each mediation session has been open about the movement it is willing to make by working with the federal mediator and expressing its willingness to accept the mediator’s proposals. The federal mediator’s proposal would reflect significant movement from the Union’s last proposal.
The Company’s delay tactics also extend to scheduling negotiation dates. CVS management consistently fails to offer dates during mediation. Most recently, the federal mediator offered up numerous possible negotiation dates on 2/20, 2/22, 2/27 – all dates that the Union has accepted, but CVS has rejected. The Union remains committed to securing the earliest date possible for the next negotiation session, and will not be discouraged by CVS’s delay tactics.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected]
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
The Company’s delay tactics also extend to scheduling negotiation dates. CVS management consistently fails to offer dates during mediation. Most recently, the federal mediator offered up numerous possible negotiation dates on 2/20, 2/22, 2/27 – all dates that the Union has accepted, but CVS has rejected. The Union remains committed to securing the earliest date possible for the next negotiation session, and will not be discouraged by CVS’s delay tactics.
Members with questions should contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected]
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Bargaining Update Meetings
01.26.18 - Members are welcomed to join Teamsters Local 727 CVS Union Business Representative Melissa Senatore for an update on the status of the ongoing contract negotiations between Local 727 and CVS. Members can also discuss any questions or concerns they have regarding the negotiations during these meetings.
Dates/Time: Tuesday, February 6 at 8pm
Wednesday, February 7 at 12pm
Place: Dunkin Donuts
1100 Route 83 (Near CVS headquarters at intersection of Mark/Route 83)
Bensenville, IL
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Dates/Time: Tuesday, February 6 at 8pm
Wednesday, February 7 at 12pm
Place: Dunkin Donuts
1100 Route 83 (Near CVS headquarters at intersection of Mark/Route 83)
Bensenville, IL
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
CVS Shows No Movement During Latest Mediation Session
12.20.17 - The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management held another mediation session for a new collective bargaining agreement on December 13, 2017. CVS yet again made no movement from its September 2016 proposal, which, among other things, would grant CVS the right to eliminate PICS from the bargaining unit.
“Local 727 considered the federal mediator’s suggestions and was more than willing to negotiate to reach a fair deal,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “It appears that CVS, unfortunately, is stubbornly unwilling to even engage in the negotiating process. Management seems to hope that by continuing to waste the Union’s time, we’ll bargain against ourselves and cede our positions. Fighting for our members’ interests remains the Union’s number one priority and we will not be deterred by CVS’s tactics.”
Coli added that while CVS has not moved from its measly wage offer which does not include retro-activity, it seems to have no problem continuing to pay its attorney to fly in from Massachusetts and waste everyone’s time.
The Company also said it would supply dates for future negotiating sessions but provided none to the mediator. Local 727 will continue to work with the mediator to arrange dates.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
“Local 727 considered the federal mediator’s suggestions and was more than willing to negotiate to reach a fair deal,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “It appears that CVS, unfortunately, is stubbornly unwilling to even engage in the negotiating process. Management seems to hope that by continuing to waste the Union’s time, we’ll bargain against ourselves and cede our positions. Fighting for our members’ interests remains the Union’s number one priority and we will not be deterred by CVS’s tactics.”
Coli added that while CVS has not moved from its measly wage offer which does not include retro-activity, it seems to have no problem continuing to pay its attorney to fly in from Massachusetts and waste everyone’s time.
The Company also said it would supply dates for future negotiating sessions but provided none to the mediator. Local 727 will continue to work with the mediator to arrange dates.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Delays Selection of Dates to Meet with Union for Next Round of Negotiations
10.27.17 - CVS is yet again delaying selecting dates to meet with Teamsters Local 727 for the next round of bargaining for a new contract. The Parties last met on October 3, 2017. Prior to that meeting, the Union demanded, but CVS refused, to select additional dates beyond October 3rd, indicating instead that it would select one during the October 3rd session. Not surprisingly, when asked on October 3rd during the mediation session to provide additional dates CVS was willing to meet, management refused.
At the conclusion of the October 3rd mediation, the federal mediator indicated he would send future dates to both Parties. Hearing nothing from the mediator, Local 727 reached out to him for dates on October 18th. Responding a week later, the mediator proposed a number of dates. The Union responded immediately, indicating that of the dates offered, the Union was available and willing to meet on 11 separate dates beginning as soon as December 4th. Local 727 also requested that the Parties select more than one date to avoid further delay by CVS in the future.
CVS finally responded October 27th, with management indicating they were only available for one date. The Parties will resume negotiations on December 13th, and the Union will continue to demand more dates from CVS.
“CVS’s delay tactics are beyond tiresome and it just shows the contempt they have for the pharmacists’ concerns and the bargaining process in general,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
At the conclusion of the October 3rd mediation, the federal mediator indicated he would send future dates to both Parties. Hearing nothing from the mediator, Local 727 reached out to him for dates on October 18th. Responding a week later, the mediator proposed a number of dates. The Union responded immediately, indicating that of the dates offered, the Union was available and willing to meet on 11 separate dates beginning as soon as December 4th. Local 727 also requested that the Parties select more than one date to avoid further delay by CVS in the future.
CVS finally responded October 27th, with management indicating they were only available for one date. The Parties will resume negotiations on December 13th, and the Union will continue to demand more dates from CVS.
“CVS’s delay tactics are beyond tiresome and it just shows the contempt they have for the pharmacists’ concerns and the bargaining process in general,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Shows Disregard for Pharmacists’ Concerns by Wasting Time During Latest Mediation Session
10.05.17 - The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management resumed negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement on October 3, 2017. The Union, as in previous negotiations, was forthright in expressing its desire to reach a fair agreement. Unfortunately, CVS continued to waste time and make no movement.
The Union began negotiations by rejecting CVS’s proposal to essentially remove PICS from the bargaining unit. The Union Bargaining Committee spent the remainder of the day waiting for CVS to provide a comprehensive response to the Union’s last proposal. Although CVS had more than two months and the entire day in which to prepare a response, no response ever came.
CVS was also unwilling to provide new dates to meet with the Union, making it clear that negotiations are not a priority for the Company.
“CVS seems to think that by wasting another bargaining session the Union and pharmacists will just give up,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “Management is mistaken, because that will never happen. Despite all their delay tactics, CVS is not going to discourage Local 727 from continuing to fight for pharmacists’ top priorities and demands, which, among other things, include fair wage increases and full retroactivity.”
During negotiations, Local 727 initiated a conversation with CVS regarding the new mandatory counseling law and its effect on pharmacists’ meal times and breaks. The Union made it clear that current contract language guarantees each pharmacist uninterrupted rest periods and meal breaks and asked CVS what plan was in place to ensure that this right is protected in light of the new law. CVS was unwilling to address the issue directly, instead claiming that current break policies and procedures were sufficient. Local 727 explained that it expected CVS to provide these breaks and that counseling is not a valid basis on which to interrupt pharmacists during their much-needed breaks. The Union will be filing a grievance over the issue as well as continuing to fight for a fair break policy in contract negotiations.
REMEMBER: Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even though the contract has expired.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
The Union began negotiations by rejecting CVS’s proposal to essentially remove PICS from the bargaining unit. The Union Bargaining Committee spent the remainder of the day waiting for CVS to provide a comprehensive response to the Union’s last proposal. Although CVS had more than two months and the entire day in which to prepare a response, no response ever came.
CVS was also unwilling to provide new dates to meet with the Union, making it clear that negotiations are not a priority for the Company.
“CVS seems to think that by wasting another bargaining session the Union and pharmacists will just give up,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “Management is mistaken, because that will never happen. Despite all their delay tactics, CVS is not going to discourage Local 727 from continuing to fight for pharmacists’ top priorities and demands, which, among other things, include fair wage increases and full retroactivity.”
During negotiations, Local 727 initiated a conversation with CVS regarding the new mandatory counseling law and its effect on pharmacists’ meal times and breaks. The Union made it clear that current contract language guarantees each pharmacist uninterrupted rest periods and meal breaks and asked CVS what plan was in place to ensure that this right is protected in light of the new law. CVS was unwilling to address the issue directly, instead claiming that current break policies and procedures were sufficient. Local 727 explained that it expected CVS to provide these breaks and that counseling is not a valid basis on which to interrupt pharmacists during their much-needed breaks. The Union will be filing a grievance over the issue as well as continuing to fight for a fair break policy in contract negotiations.
REMEMBER: Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even though the contract has expired.
If you have questions, contact Local 727 Business Representative Melissa Senatore at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Union and CVS to Resume Mediation on October 3rd
09.27.17 - Teamsters Local 727 and CVS management are headed back to the negotiating table Tuesday, October 3, 2017, and will continue mediation for a new contract. The Union is continuing to fight for the demands from pharmacists and is eager to see long-awaited movement from CVS.
“Getting CVS to schedule the October 3rd mediation date proved to be more difficult than it needed to be,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
In fact, Local 727 was available to meet earlier (on August 8th and August 10th) as was the mediator, but CVS stated they could not meet in August. Due to CVS’s unwillingness to meet in August, the mediator offered dates in September and the Union again accepted multiple dates (9/5, 9/6, 9/12, 9/21 and 9/22).
CVS responded that it could not meet on any of the five dates accepted by the mediator and Local 727. The mediator offered an additional 18 dates in October, in an effort to accommodate CVS’s availability, to which CVS responded that they could only meet on one day (October 3rd).
Given CVS’s measly availability, the Union continued to press CVS to schedule more than one date to avoid any further delay. CVS refused to provide other dates and, as a result, the Parties have only confirmed October 3rd.
“CVS’s delay tactics make it seem like they don’t care about the pharmacists’ demands,” said Coli. “Even when negotiations do occur, CVS finds a reason to leave early, alleging they have to catch a flight home. The Union will not be deterred by these tactics and is determined to fight for the pharmacists’ best interests.”
If you have any questions, please contact your business agent, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
“Getting CVS to schedule the October 3rd mediation date proved to be more difficult than it needed to be,” said John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
In fact, Local 727 was available to meet earlier (on August 8th and August 10th) as was the mediator, but CVS stated they could not meet in August. Due to CVS’s unwillingness to meet in August, the mediator offered dates in September and the Union again accepted multiple dates (9/5, 9/6, 9/12, 9/21 and 9/22).
CVS responded that it could not meet on any of the five dates accepted by the mediator and Local 727. The mediator offered an additional 18 dates in October, in an effort to accommodate CVS’s availability, to which CVS responded that they could only meet on one day (October 3rd).
Given CVS’s measly availability, the Union continued to press CVS to schedule more than one date to avoid any further delay. CVS refused to provide other dates and, as a result, the Parties have only confirmed October 3rd.
“CVS’s delay tactics make it seem like they don’t care about the pharmacists’ demands,” said Coli. “Even when negotiations do occur, CVS finds a reason to leave early, alleging they have to catch a flight home. The Union will not be deterred by these tactics and is determined to fight for the pharmacists’ best interests.”
If you have any questions, please contact your business agent, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
CVS Again Wastes Time in Latest Round of Negotiation
07.27.17 - The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management continued negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement on Wednesday, July 26, 2017. Just like the last meeting between the two parties, the Union wasted no time in expressing its willingness to reach a deal. CVS, however, again delayed nearly all day in responding to the Union’s information requests, with management ending negotiations early despite the Union’s willingness to extend the talks for as long as necessary to reach an agreement.
This bargaining session was the first the parties have had since their last meeting on May 23.
After having months to prepare proposals, CVS began negotiations with nothing more than resubmitting and discussing two prior proposals it already presented to the Union. CVS is proposing to eliminate and replace Team Leaders with non-bargaining unit pharmacy managers who would, according to CVS, be on-sight and able to issue discipline to pharmacists.
When the Union requested information relating to these two CVS proposals, CVS waited until 4:07 p.m. to provide it to the Union, leaving the Union little to no time to respond. CVS appears to have intended, like last time, to run out the clock and accomplish nothing.
“Once again, CVS wasted everyone’s time with their delay tactics,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “CVS’s inaction will not deter the Union. We stand firm on our proposals and remain committed to the needs and best interests of our members.”
The Union is waiting to hear back from CVS regarding its availability to meet in the future for negotiations.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
This bargaining session was the first the parties have had since their last meeting on May 23.
After having months to prepare proposals, CVS began negotiations with nothing more than resubmitting and discussing two prior proposals it already presented to the Union. CVS is proposing to eliminate and replace Team Leaders with non-bargaining unit pharmacy managers who would, according to CVS, be on-sight and able to issue discipline to pharmacists.
When the Union requested information relating to these two CVS proposals, CVS waited until 4:07 p.m. to provide it to the Union, leaving the Union little to no time to respond. CVS appears to have intended, like last time, to run out the clock and accomplish nothing.
“Once again, CVS wasted everyone’s time with their delay tactics,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727. “CVS’s inaction will not deter the Union. We stand firm on our proposals and remain committed to the needs and best interests of our members.”
The Union is waiting to hear back from CVS regarding its availability to meet in the future for negotiations.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Local 727 and CVS have scheduled their next meeting for Wednesday, July 26, 2017
07.14.17 - During the last negotiating session on May 23, the federal mediator presented a supposal that would include the following provisions:
• 2.75% wage increase for pharmacists
• Retroactivity back to May 5, 2016
• One-time lump sum ratification bonus of $750 for full-time pharmacists
• Part-time pharmacists who average 20 or more hours during the 52 weeks prior to May 7, 2017 will receive a $500 ratification bonus
• Part-time pharmacists who average 19.9 hours or less or during the 52 weeks prior to May 7, 2017 will receive a $250 ratification bonus
• One week of unbid vacation time to be used in single day increments
While Local 727 thought the mediator’s supposal was fair and was willing to agree to this compromise, CVS rejected the supposal outright and refused to make any movement on the proposals they’ve been pushing since November 2016. Additionally, CVS moved backwards by making a new proposal that would require contract renegotiation if pharmacy legislation is passed during the term of the new agreement.
It also should be noted that the union had previously offered to meet June 12 (a day all parties previously had available for a hearing). Instead of utilizing this date, CVS rejected the date and after waiting nearly a month, only recently contacted the union and agreed to the July 26 meeting date.
“Regardless of the time CVS has wasted between meetings, our commitment to fighting for the provisions pharmacists most want has not wavered,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
If you have any questions, please contact your business agent, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
• 2.75% wage increase for pharmacists
• Retroactivity back to May 5, 2016
• One-time lump sum ratification bonus of $750 for full-time pharmacists
• Part-time pharmacists who average 20 or more hours during the 52 weeks prior to May 7, 2017 will receive a $500 ratification bonus
• Part-time pharmacists who average 19.9 hours or less or during the 52 weeks prior to May 7, 2017 will receive a $250 ratification bonus
• One week of unbid vacation time to be used in single day increments
While Local 727 thought the mediator’s supposal was fair and was willing to agree to this compromise, CVS rejected the supposal outright and refused to make any movement on the proposals they’ve been pushing since November 2016. Additionally, CVS moved backwards by making a new proposal that would require contract renegotiation if pharmacy legislation is passed during the term of the new agreement.
It also should be noted that the union had previously offered to meet June 12 (a day all parties previously had available for a hearing). Instead of utilizing this date, CVS rejected the date and after waiting nearly a month, only recently contacted the union and agreed to the July 26 meeting date.
“Regardless of the time CVS has wasted between meetings, our commitment to fighting for the provisions pharmacists most want has not wavered,” said John Coli, Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727.
If you have any questions, please contact your business agent, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
CVS Wastes Time, Refuses to Make Movement in Latest Round of Mediation
05.25.17 - The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management continued negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 23, 2017. The union wasted no time in expressing its willingness to reach a deal; however, CVS delayed in responding to the federal mediator’s supposal, which, if accepted by CVS, would signify huge movement from the union. Although CVS took five hours to respond, management offered no movement.
This marks the third session with the federal mediator with management standing firm on its November 2016 proposal, which includes a 1.8% wage increase with no retro pay. As a result of taking nearly the entire day, CVS management gave the union no time to even consider its absurd response and instead abruptly ended the session claiming they had to catch a flight back home.
“It’s obvious CVS didn’t want meaningful negotiations to occur,” said John Coli, Jr., President of Local 727. “CVS management took five hours to do nothing. They simply wanted to run out the clock.”
The only new proposal CVS management made was to suggest that the parties reopen and renegotiate the contract if new work standard legislation becomes law.
“It took the company six months between meetings and nearly a full day to ultimately move backward,” said Coli. “This is yet another slap in the face and yet another example of management showing that they don’t care about pharmacists’ concerns. However, it also clearly shows CVS’ concern over the union’s recent successful efforts and support from Illinois lawmakers.”
Over the last several weeks, Local 727 representatives and CVS stewards have reached out to pharmacists for their input. Time and again, CVS pharmacists expressed disgust over the company’s contract proposal, which still includes radical concessions such as mandatory 12-hour shifts, forcing pharmacists to perform work on uncompensated time and meager wage increases.
“CVS maintains it wants to ‘reach a deal’ and yet its actions do not track with these empty words and sentiments,” Coli said. “Pharmacists are telling the Local 727 Bargaining Committee to keep fighting for the issues that matter most to them, so that’s what we are doing and will continue to do.”
The union offered to meet with CVS for negotiations on June 12th (a date CVS rejected). No new date has been scheduled, but the parties will be reaching out to the mediator to schedule additional dates.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
This marks the third session with the federal mediator with management standing firm on its November 2016 proposal, which includes a 1.8% wage increase with no retro pay. As a result of taking nearly the entire day, CVS management gave the union no time to even consider its absurd response and instead abruptly ended the session claiming they had to catch a flight back home.
“It’s obvious CVS didn’t want meaningful negotiations to occur,” said John Coli, Jr., President of Local 727. “CVS management took five hours to do nothing. They simply wanted to run out the clock.”
The only new proposal CVS management made was to suggest that the parties reopen and renegotiate the contract if new work standard legislation becomes law.
“It took the company six months between meetings and nearly a full day to ultimately move backward,” said Coli. “This is yet another slap in the face and yet another example of management showing that they don’t care about pharmacists’ concerns. However, it also clearly shows CVS’ concern over the union’s recent successful efforts and support from Illinois lawmakers.”
Over the last several weeks, Local 727 representatives and CVS stewards have reached out to pharmacists for their input. Time and again, CVS pharmacists expressed disgust over the company’s contract proposal, which still includes radical concessions such as mandatory 12-hour shifts, forcing pharmacists to perform work on uncompensated time and meager wage increases.
“CVS maintains it wants to ‘reach a deal’ and yet its actions do not track with these empty words and sentiments,” Coli said. “Pharmacists are telling the Local 727 Bargaining Committee to keep fighting for the issues that matter most to them, so that’s what we are doing and will continue to do.”
The union offered to meet with CVS for negotiations on June 12th (a date CVS rejected). No new date has been scheduled, but the parties will be reaching out to the mediator to schedule additional dates.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
CVS Finally Agrees to Enter Federal Mediation
08.15.16 -- After three weeks of ignoring the union, CVS management has finally responded to Teamsters Local 727’s request to enter federal mediation.
The first mediation meeting is scheduled for Sept. 22.
At the end of the last negotiation meeting on July 21 – during which CVS management openly threatened “to do things that would be to the detriment of pharmacists” after the Local 727 Bargaining Committee would not agree to the company’s regressive proposals – the union formally asked CVS to agree to enter federal mediation. The union specifically asked for available dates to meet for mediation, but management would not respond across the table.
The union will continue to update CVS members. If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
The first mediation meeting is scheduled for Sept. 22.
At the end of the last negotiation meeting on July 21 – during which CVS management openly threatened “to do things that would be to the detriment of pharmacists” after the Local 727 Bargaining Committee would not agree to the company’s regressive proposals – the union formally asked CVS to agree to enter federal mediation. The union specifically asked for available dates to meet for mediation, but management would not respond across the table.
The union will continue to update CVS members. If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
CVS Management Threatens Teamster Pharmacists During Negotiations, Union to File ULP Charges
07.21.16 -- Representatives of CVS threatened “to do things that would be to the detriment of pharmacists” after Teamsters Local 727 would not agree to the company’s regressive proposals during contract negotiations on Thursday, July 21.
Management verbally threatened the union and Teamster pharmacists in front of the Local 727 Bargaining Committee over CVS’s desire to force employees to work 12-hour shifts. After a two-month hiatus from meeting and two new bargaining sessions, the company has remained unwilling to move from its unreasonable demands.
“CVS has altogether refused to make any movement on mandatory subjects of bargaining and now, instead of simply wasting our time, management has chosen to threaten our members for not rolling over,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Not only does the company’s behavior handicap negotiations, management’s statements during Thursday’s session are dangerous and unlawful.”
Local 727 is in the process of filing unfair labor practice charges against CVS with the National Labor Relations Board.
In the meantime, the Local 727 Bargaining Committee formally asked CVS to agree to federal mediation. The union asked the company for available dates to meet for mediation, but management would not immediately respond across the table.
In addition to its threats over 12-hour shifts, CVS also told the union on Thursday that it wishes to limit part-time pharmacists and floaters to performing as little work as possible. Company representatives said they do not want to seek outside help and want as few as two full-time pharmacists to cover 100 percent of shifts at any given store “in an ideal world.”
“Apparently an ideal world for CVS is one in which workers can be bullied into doing anything their employer wants and the company can freely threaten hardworking men and women to silence their concerns,” Coli said. “If CVS is going to act so unprofessionally that management resorts to threatening workers, then it’s become clear that federal mediation must begin.”
Local 727 will update pharmacists as soon as any dates for federal mediation are agreed to. Any members with questions should contact Melissa Senatore at [email protected].
Management verbally threatened the union and Teamster pharmacists in front of the Local 727 Bargaining Committee over CVS’s desire to force employees to work 12-hour shifts. After a two-month hiatus from meeting and two new bargaining sessions, the company has remained unwilling to move from its unreasonable demands.
“CVS has altogether refused to make any movement on mandatory subjects of bargaining and now, instead of simply wasting our time, management has chosen to threaten our members for not rolling over,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Not only does the company’s behavior handicap negotiations, management’s statements during Thursday’s session are dangerous and unlawful.”
Local 727 is in the process of filing unfair labor practice charges against CVS with the National Labor Relations Board.
In the meantime, the Local 727 Bargaining Committee formally asked CVS to agree to federal mediation. The union asked the company for available dates to meet for mediation, but management would not immediately respond across the table.
In addition to its threats over 12-hour shifts, CVS also told the union on Thursday that it wishes to limit part-time pharmacists and floaters to performing as little work as possible. Company representatives said they do not want to seek outside help and want as few as two full-time pharmacists to cover 100 percent of shifts at any given store “in an ideal world.”
“Apparently an ideal world for CVS is one in which workers can be bullied into doing anything their employer wants and the company can freely threaten hardworking men and women to silence their concerns,” Coli said. “If CVS is going to act so unprofessionally that management resorts to threatening workers, then it’s become clear that federal mediation must begin.”
Local 727 will update pharmacists as soon as any dates for federal mediation are agreed to. Any members with questions should contact Melissa Senatore at [email protected].
With Negotiations Set to Resume July 20, Local 727 Participates in Informational Picket
07.18.16 -- Teamsters Local 727 continued its efforts to inform the public of the safety risks associated with CVS management’s mistreatment of overworked and understaffed pharmacists as union representatives participated in an informational picket outside Chicago-area pharmacies on July 15.
The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management are scheduled to resume negotiations July 20 and July 21.
“The public needs to know what their CVS pharmacists are up against and how it can impact customer safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Pharmacists are constantly given more work with less help and little down time during their long and demanding shifts. And as we have for months, we are once again calling on CVS management to let pharmacists return their full focus to taking care of their customers.”
The three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expired May 7. The Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management have met twice since the expiration, and the company has made little movement to address “quality of life” concerns, such as uninterrupted breaks, reasonable workday rules and elimination of excessive tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
Instead, the company is still demanding that pharmacists work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time and support they need to complete their ever-growing list of daily tasks.
“Time and again, we have made it clear what the pharmacists want from management: to let them be pharmacists, to let them do the job they love and were trained to do. They want to serve their patients, they want to help grow the business, but they need the support to do it,” Coli said. “We hope CVS management is finally ready to listen and to take action to address pharmacists’ concerns so we can reach a fair agreement.”
During the last negotiation meeting on May 26, CVS management finally responded to the union’s previous economic proposal by adding just 15 cents to the company’s own meager proposal for 1 percent wage increases. That shallow movement still leaves CVS pharmacists earning less than Local 727-represented pharmacists with Jewel-Osco.
The company also has reiterated its desire to establish new holiday work restrictions and cut store and work hours overall as CVS sees fit. Management told the union it would be interested in reviewing workplace conditions and discussing them with Local 727 but only after the company was able to implement 12-hour work schedules at area pharmacies.
REMEMBER: Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even though the contract has expired.
Have You Signed the Petition?
When contract negotiations resume next week, the Local 727 Bargaining Committee will present to CVS management a petition from pharmacists, who are calling on the company to reach a fair agreement on a new contract.
Local 727 business representative Melissa Senatore will continue to visit CVS stores to gather pharmacists’ signatures. CVS pharmacists also can sign the petition online at http://tiny.cc/CVSpetition.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or[email protected].
The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management are scheduled to resume negotiations July 20 and July 21.
“The public needs to know what their CVS pharmacists are up against and how it can impact customer safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Pharmacists are constantly given more work with less help and little down time during their long and demanding shifts. And as we have for months, we are once again calling on CVS management to let pharmacists return their full focus to taking care of their customers.”
The three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expired May 7. The Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management have met twice since the expiration, and the company has made little movement to address “quality of life” concerns, such as uninterrupted breaks, reasonable workday rules and elimination of excessive tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
Instead, the company is still demanding that pharmacists work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time and support they need to complete their ever-growing list of daily tasks.
“Time and again, we have made it clear what the pharmacists want from management: to let them be pharmacists, to let them do the job they love and were trained to do. They want to serve their patients, they want to help grow the business, but they need the support to do it,” Coli said. “We hope CVS management is finally ready to listen and to take action to address pharmacists’ concerns so we can reach a fair agreement.”
During the last negotiation meeting on May 26, CVS management finally responded to the union’s previous economic proposal by adding just 15 cents to the company’s own meager proposal for 1 percent wage increases. That shallow movement still leaves CVS pharmacists earning less than Local 727-represented pharmacists with Jewel-Osco.
The company also has reiterated its desire to establish new holiday work restrictions and cut store and work hours overall as CVS sees fit. Management told the union it would be interested in reviewing workplace conditions and discussing them with Local 727 but only after the company was able to implement 12-hour work schedules at area pharmacies.
REMEMBER: Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even though the contract has expired.
Have You Signed the Petition?
When contract negotiations resume next week, the Local 727 Bargaining Committee will present to CVS management a petition from pharmacists, who are calling on the company to reach a fair agreement on a new contract.
Local 727 business representative Melissa Senatore will continue to visit CVS stores to gather pharmacists’ signatures. CVS pharmacists also can sign the petition online at http://tiny.cc/CVSpetition.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or[email protected].
CVS Pharmacists Express Disgust Over Company's Latest Contract Proposal
06.20.16 -- CVS pharmacists have expressed disgust over the company’s latest contract proposal, which still includes radical concessions such as mandatory 12-hour shifts, forcing pharmacists to perform work on uncompensated time and meager wage increases.
“Every pharmacist we’ve talked to has said they have no interest in the company’s most recent proposal,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Pharmacists are telling the Local 727 Bargaining Committee to keep fighting for the quality of life issues that matter most to them, and that’s what we are doing.”
Teamsters Local 727 continues to inform the public of CVS management’s mistreatment of pharmacists while waiting to return to the bargaining table on July 20 and July 21. During the ninth negotiation meeting on May 26, CVS altogether refused to budge from its unreasonable proposals and spent the ensuing weeks passing out the proposal to pharmacists in their stores.
“Our pharmacists will not be intimidated. This isn’t just about their contract, this is about their lives and their livelihoods,” Coli said. “They are standing strong, and the union is standing by them.”
REMEMBER: Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even though the contract has expired.
Have You Signed the Petition?
When contract negotiations resume next month, the Local 727 Bargaining Committee will present to CVS management a petition from pharmacists, who are calling on the company to reach a fair agreement on a new contract. SIGN THE PETITION!
“Every pharmacist we’ve talked to has said they have no interest in the company’s most recent proposal,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Pharmacists are telling the Local 727 Bargaining Committee to keep fighting for the quality of life issues that matter most to them, and that’s what we are doing.”
Teamsters Local 727 continues to inform the public of CVS management’s mistreatment of pharmacists while waiting to return to the bargaining table on July 20 and July 21. During the ninth negotiation meeting on May 26, CVS altogether refused to budge from its unreasonable proposals and spent the ensuing weeks passing out the proposal to pharmacists in their stores.
“Our pharmacists will not be intimidated. This isn’t just about their contract, this is about their lives and their livelihoods,” Coli said. “They are standing strong, and the union is standing by them.”
REMEMBER: Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even though the contract has expired.
Have You Signed the Petition?
When contract negotiations resume next month, the Local 727 Bargaining Committee will present to CVS management a petition from pharmacists, who are calling on the company to reach a fair agreement on a new contract. SIGN THE PETITION!
CVS Management Sticks to Radical Concessions, Ignores Key Issues During Bargaining With Teamster Pharmacists
05.26.16 -- Throughout a full-day of new contract negotiations on May 26, management for CVS altogether refused to budge from the radical concessions its demanding of Teamster-represented pharmacists.
Thursday marked the ninth bargaining session between Local 727 and CVS. Yet the company that reported revenue last quarter of $43.2 billion continues to demand pharmacists work 12-hour shifts and perform other work on uncompensated time.
“CVS is kicking the can down the road — ignoring critical proposals from the union and failing to address the issues we need to bargain the most,” said John Coli., Jr., President of Local 727. “Their unreasonable proposals insult hardworking pharmacists and put the public in a dangerous spot of trying to fill prescriptions with overworked and undervalued medical professionals.”
The three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expired Saturday, May 7. CVS management has made little movement to address “quality of life” concerns, such as uninterrupted breaks, reasonable workday rules and elimination of excessive tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
Instead, the company is still demanding that pharmacists work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time and support they need to complete their ever-growing list of daily tasks.
CVS on Thursday responded to the union’s previous economic proposal by adding just 15-cents to the company’s own meager proposal for 1 percent wage increases. That shallow movement still leaves CVS pharmacists earning less than Local 727-represented pharmacists with Jewel-Osco.
The company also has reiterated its desire to establish new holiday work restrictions and cut store and work hours overall as CVS sees fit. Management told the union it would be interested in reviewing workplace conditions and discussing them with Local 727 but only after the company was able to implement 12-hour work schedules at area pharmacies.
Local 727 will update pharmacists as soon as any new future bargaining sessions are scheduled.
Any members with questions should contact Melissa Senatore at [email protected].
Thursday marked the ninth bargaining session between Local 727 and CVS. Yet the company that reported revenue last quarter of $43.2 billion continues to demand pharmacists work 12-hour shifts and perform other work on uncompensated time.
“CVS is kicking the can down the road — ignoring critical proposals from the union and failing to address the issues we need to bargain the most,” said John Coli., Jr., President of Local 727. “Their unreasonable proposals insult hardworking pharmacists and put the public in a dangerous spot of trying to fill prescriptions with overworked and undervalued medical professionals.”
The three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expired Saturday, May 7. CVS management has made little movement to address “quality of life” concerns, such as uninterrupted breaks, reasonable workday rules and elimination of excessive tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
Instead, the company is still demanding that pharmacists work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time and support they need to complete their ever-growing list of daily tasks.
CVS on Thursday responded to the union’s previous economic proposal by adding just 15-cents to the company’s own meager proposal for 1 percent wage increases. That shallow movement still leaves CVS pharmacists earning less than Local 727-represented pharmacists with Jewel-Osco.
The company also has reiterated its desire to establish new holiday work restrictions and cut store and work hours overall as CVS sees fit. Management told the union it would be interested in reviewing workplace conditions and discussing them with Local 727 but only after the company was able to implement 12-hour work schedules at area pharmacies.
Local 727 will update pharmacists as soon as any new future bargaining sessions are scheduled.
Any members with questions should contact Melissa Senatore at [email protected].
Union Receives Outpouring of Support CVS Pharmacists; Local 727 Set to Resume Negotiations May 26
05.13.16 -- Since Teamsters Local 727 representatives began informing the public of the safety risks associated with CVS management’s mistreatment of overworked and understaffed Chicago-area pharmacists, the union has received an outpouring of support from pharmacists and CVS customers from across the country.
“Many current and former CVS pharmacists, from California to Maryland, have echoed our members’ concerns,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “This fight isn’t just about our 150 union pharmacists, it’s about ensuring the ongoing safety and sanctity of the pharmacy profession.”
As one former CVS pharmacist in California wrote, “Pharmacists are forced to knowingly avoid patient contact to keep up with ‘superfluous tasks,’ and angry patients pose much less of a threat to your job than an upset District Manager who asks why you ‘can’t keep up.’ … CVS is an unsafe employer.”
Teamsters Local 727’s Bargaining Committee — composed of union representatives, attorneys and CVS pharmacists — have been negotiating with CVS management for almost two months in an effort to reach a fair agreement on a new contract for about 150 Chicago-area pharmacists. However, the company has made little movement to address CVS pharmacists’ “quality of life” issues such as uninterrupted breaks, sufficient tech hours, preservation of the nine-hour workday, and elimination of superfluous tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
Instead, the company is demanding that pharmacists work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time they need to complete their daily tasks, be that via pharmacist overlap or weekly administrative hours.
In addition, CVS has proposed meager 1 percent wage increases and has yet to respond to the union’s last economic proposal from May 3. Meanwhile, CVS Health this month reported its revenue jumped nearly 19 percent to $43.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016.
Local 727 has filed multiple unfair labor practice charges against CVS with the National Labor Relations Board as well.
The Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management have agreed to resume negotiations Thursday, May 26.
“We have made it abundantly clear what the pharmacists want from management: to let them be pharmacists, to let them do the job they love and were trained to do. They want to serve their patients, they want to help grow the business, but they need the support to do it,” Coli said. “We are hopeful that CVS management will finally listen to pharmacists’ concerns so we can reach a fair agreement. But no matter what happens, this local union will do whatever it takes to support our members.”
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
“Many current and former CVS pharmacists, from California to Maryland, have echoed our members’ concerns,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “This fight isn’t just about our 150 union pharmacists, it’s about ensuring the ongoing safety and sanctity of the pharmacy profession.”
As one former CVS pharmacist in California wrote, “Pharmacists are forced to knowingly avoid patient contact to keep up with ‘superfluous tasks,’ and angry patients pose much less of a threat to your job than an upset District Manager who asks why you ‘can’t keep up.’ … CVS is an unsafe employer.”
Teamsters Local 727’s Bargaining Committee — composed of union representatives, attorneys and CVS pharmacists — have been negotiating with CVS management for almost two months in an effort to reach a fair agreement on a new contract for about 150 Chicago-area pharmacists. However, the company has made little movement to address CVS pharmacists’ “quality of life” issues such as uninterrupted breaks, sufficient tech hours, preservation of the nine-hour workday, and elimination of superfluous tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
Instead, the company is demanding that pharmacists work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time they need to complete their daily tasks, be that via pharmacist overlap or weekly administrative hours.
In addition, CVS has proposed meager 1 percent wage increases and has yet to respond to the union’s last economic proposal from May 3. Meanwhile, CVS Health this month reported its revenue jumped nearly 19 percent to $43.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016.
Local 727 has filed multiple unfair labor practice charges against CVS with the National Labor Relations Board as well.
The Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management have agreed to resume negotiations Thursday, May 26.
“We have made it abundantly clear what the pharmacists want from management: to let them be pharmacists, to let them do the job they love and were trained to do. They want to serve their patients, they want to help grow the business, but they need the support to do it,” Coli said. “We are hopeful that CVS management will finally listen to pharmacists’ concerns so we can reach a fair agreement. But no matter what happens, this local union will do whatever it takes to support our members.”
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
CVS Still Pushing for 12-Hour Shifts, Meager Wage Increases
05.10.16 -- CVS management made little movement to address pharmacists’ concerns about quality of life issues during another long negotiation meeting with the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee on May 10.
The company is still insisting on forcing pharmacists to work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time they need to complete their daily tasks, be that with pharmacist overlap or weekly administrative hours.
DOWNLOAD COMPANY’S PROPOSAL ON WORKDAY AND WORKWEEK
“Forcing pharmacists to work 12-hour shifts is not safe for customers, and it’s not safe for pharmacists,” said eight-year CVS pharmacist Jeremy Aguila, a Bargaining Committee member. “It’s a sad day when I feel like I have to protect my customers from my company. CVS is putting us in a tough position.”
In addition, CVS has proposed meager 1 percent wage increases and have yet to respond to the union’s last economic proposal from May 3. Meanwhile, CVS Health this month reported its revenue jumped nearly 19 percent to $43.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016.
Local 727 also filed additional unfair labor practice charges against CVS with the National Labor Relations Board.
“We want to work hard and make the company grow, but we also want to protect customer safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “We don’t feel heard, and we don’t feel the company has made any significant steps toward alleviating pharmacists’ quality of life concerns.”
The current three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expires Saturday, May 7. The union and management do not have an extension agreement in place, so after May 7, pharmacists will be working without a contract. Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even after the contract expires.
Local 727 representatives took action May 10 by passing out handbills outside Chicago-area pharmacies to inform the public of safety risks associated with CVS management’s mistreatment of overworked and understaffed pharmacists. READ THE CHICAGO TRIBUNE’S COVERAGE
The Local 727 Bargaining Committee has offered to meet with CVS management again in an effort to reach an agreement. The union will update members when additional meetings have been set.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
The company is still insisting on forcing pharmacists to work 12-hour shifts without allowing them the time they need to complete their daily tasks, be that with pharmacist overlap or weekly administrative hours.
DOWNLOAD COMPANY’S PROPOSAL ON WORKDAY AND WORKWEEK
“Forcing pharmacists to work 12-hour shifts is not safe for customers, and it’s not safe for pharmacists,” said eight-year CVS pharmacist Jeremy Aguila, a Bargaining Committee member. “It’s a sad day when I feel like I have to protect my customers from my company. CVS is putting us in a tough position.”
In addition, CVS has proposed meager 1 percent wage increases and have yet to respond to the union’s last economic proposal from May 3. Meanwhile, CVS Health this month reported its revenue jumped nearly 19 percent to $43.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016.
Local 727 also filed additional unfair labor practice charges against CVS with the National Labor Relations Board.
“We want to work hard and make the company grow, but we also want to protect customer safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “We don’t feel heard, and we don’t feel the company has made any significant steps toward alleviating pharmacists’ quality of life concerns.”
The current three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expires Saturday, May 7. The union and management do not have an extension agreement in place, so after May 7, pharmacists will be working without a contract. Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even after the contract expires.
Local 727 representatives took action May 10 by passing out handbills outside Chicago-area pharmacies to inform the public of safety risks associated with CVS management’s mistreatment of overworked and understaffed pharmacists. READ THE CHICAGO TRIBUNE’S COVERAGE
The Local 727 Bargaining Committee has offered to meet with CVS management again in an effort to reach an agreement. The union will update members when additional meetings have been set.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Union, CVS Set to Resume Negotiations May 10
05.05.16 -- The Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management have agreed to meet again on Tuesday, May 10, to continue contract negotiations.
The current three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expires Saturday, May 7. The union and management do not have an extension agreement in place, so after May 7, pharmacists will be working without a contract. Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even after the contract expires.
“We hope that CVS will be ready to finally listen to our pharmacists’ concerns so we can reach a fair agreement,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or[email protected].
The current three-year contract covering about 150 Chicago-area CVS pharmacists expires Saturday, May 7. The union and management do not have an extension agreement in place, so after May 7, pharmacists will be working without a contract. Under federal law, CVS may not change the status quo of any working condition during bargaining even after the contract expires.
“We hope that CVS will be ready to finally listen to our pharmacists’ concerns so we can reach a fair agreement,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or[email protected].
'They Don't Care About Us': CVS Ignores Pharmacists' Concerns
05.03.16 -- After seven negotiation meetings with the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee, CVS management is still refusing to listen to pharmacists’ concerns about their diminishing working conditions.
“They don’t value any of our concerns. They’re trying to get rid of the profession of pharmacy and make it just a job,” said CVS pharmacist steward Chuck Zuraitis, a Bargaining Committee member. “We’re on the front lines every day, and yet, they don’t care about our perspective. Really, they don’t care about us.”
Meanwhile, CVS Health on Tuesday reported its revenue jumped nearly 19 percent to $43.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016.
The union has presented proposals relating to tech hours, overlap, metrics, vacation coverage, “administrative hours” to complete tasks and other working conditions.
However, during Tuesday’s meeting, the company dug in its heels on its unreasonable demands to force pharmacists to work longer shifts with inadequate staffing levels and to retain the unfettered rights to change store hours and reduce pharmacists’ work hours.
“This gigantic corporation has been completely unresponsive to the union’s proposals, which all came straight from the pharmacists themselves,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “It’s beyond frustrating, so I can only imagine how frustrated our pharmacists are with being treated so unfairly by the company they have dedicated their careers to.”
Additionally, Local 727 filed an unfair labor practice charge against the company with the National Labor Relations Board because the company is insisting on bargaining over non-mandatory subjects.
“They don’t value any of our concerns. They’re trying to get rid of the profession of pharmacy and make it just a job,” said CVS pharmacist steward Chuck Zuraitis, a Bargaining Committee member. “We’re on the front lines every day, and yet, they don’t care about our perspective. Really, they don’t care about us.”
Meanwhile, CVS Health on Tuesday reported its revenue jumped nearly 19 percent to $43.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016.
The union has presented proposals relating to tech hours, overlap, metrics, vacation coverage, “administrative hours” to complete tasks and other working conditions.
However, during Tuesday’s meeting, the company dug in its heels on its unreasonable demands to force pharmacists to work longer shifts with inadequate staffing levels and to retain the unfettered rights to change store hours and reduce pharmacists’ work hours.
“This gigantic corporation has been completely unresponsive to the union’s proposals, which all came straight from the pharmacists themselves,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “It’s beyond frustrating, so I can only imagine how frustrated our pharmacists are with being treated so unfairly by the company they have dedicated their careers to.”
Additionally, Local 727 filed an unfair labor practice charge against the company with the National Labor Relations Board because the company is insisting on bargaining over non-mandatory subjects.
Union Continues to Fight for Pharmacists' Overlap, Reasonable Work Hours
05.02.16 -- CVS management continues to demand that pharmacists work longer days while cutting their weekly hours.
“Like we have been saying all along, this contract is about quality of life issues,” said John Coli Jr., President of Teamsters Local 727.
During negotiations Monday, the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee carefully went through each possible scenario of total store hours to create reasonable, workable scheduling solutions. The union’s proposal preserves workdays and re-institutes pharmacists’ overlap, which, in turn, helps ensure public safety.
DOWNLOAD UNION’S MAY 2 SCHEDULING PROPOSAL
The company brushed off the union’s proposal, instead calling for mandatory 14-hour workdays with no assurances for overlap.
“Forcing pharmacists to work unreasonably long shifts without adequate support is not safe. It’s not in the best interest of the pharmacists or the public at large,” Coli said.
Through six negotiation meetings, the majority of non-economic issues remain open and economic issues such as wages and benefits have not yet been discussed.
CVS also is still insisting on removing pharmacy managers from the bargaining unit.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 3. The current three-year contract expires May 7, 2016.
“Like we have been saying all along, this contract is about quality of life issues,” said John Coli Jr., President of Teamsters Local 727.
During negotiations Monday, the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee carefully went through each possible scenario of total store hours to create reasonable, workable scheduling solutions. The union’s proposal preserves workdays and re-institutes pharmacists’ overlap, which, in turn, helps ensure public safety.
DOWNLOAD UNION’S MAY 2 SCHEDULING PROPOSAL
The company brushed off the union’s proposal, instead calling for mandatory 14-hour workdays with no assurances for overlap.
“Forcing pharmacists to work unreasonably long shifts without adequate support is not safe. It’s not in the best interest of the pharmacists or the public at large,” Coli said.
Through six negotiation meetings, the majority of non-economic issues remain open and economic issues such as wages and benefits have not yet been discussed.
CVS also is still insisting on removing pharmacy managers from the bargaining unit.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 3. The current three-year contract expires May 7, 2016.
Union Takes Action, Informs Public of CVS' Pharmacists Unfair Working Conditions
04.28.16 -- Teamsters Local 727 representatives have taken action to inform the public of CVS management’s mistreatment of its overworked and understaffed pharmacists.
Union representatives passed out handbills to customers and passersby outside CVS #8699 (137 S. State St.) and #8745 (771 N. Milwaukee Ave.) in downtown Chicago on April 27 and April 28 to inform the public of the safety risks involved when pharmacists are not given sufficient support.
“When pharmacists are constantly given more work with less help and little down time during their long and demanding shifts, this can affect their performance and overall well-being. It also can impact customer safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “If reaching out to the public helps to protect our pharmacists and their customers’ health, then it is worth it.”
After five full days of contract negotiations between the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management, very little progress has been made toward reaching a new agreement for about 150 Chicago-area pharmacists.
The union has repeatedly reiterated its concerns over pharmacists’ “quality of life issues,” such as uninterrupted breaks, sufficient tech hours, preservation of the nine-hour workday, and elimination of demeaning tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
“Pharmacists are professionals whose top priorities are patient care and public safety,” Coli said. “We are calling on management to take pharmacists’ concerns seriously and make progress on these quality of life issues so pharmacists return their full focus to taking care of their customers.”
The final two days of negotiations are scheduled for May 2 and May 3. The current three-year contract expires May 7.
Union representatives passed out handbills to customers and passersby outside CVS #8699 (137 S. State St.) and #8745 (771 N. Milwaukee Ave.) in downtown Chicago on April 27 and April 28 to inform the public of the safety risks involved when pharmacists are not given sufficient support.
“When pharmacists are constantly given more work with less help and little down time during their long and demanding shifts, this can affect their performance and overall well-being. It also can impact customer safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “If reaching out to the public helps to protect our pharmacists and their customers’ health, then it is worth it.”
After five full days of contract negotiations between the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management, very little progress has been made toward reaching a new agreement for about 150 Chicago-area pharmacists.
The union has repeatedly reiterated its concerns over pharmacists’ “quality of life issues,” such as uninterrupted breaks, sufficient tech hours, preservation of the nine-hour workday, and elimination of demeaning tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
“Pharmacists are professionals whose top priorities are patient care and public safety,” Coli said. “We are calling on management to take pharmacists’ concerns seriously and make progress on these quality of life issues so pharmacists return their full focus to taking care of their customers.”
The final two days of negotiations are scheduled for May 2 and May 3. The current three-year contract expires May 7.
Management’s ‘Totally Unacceptable’ Behavior During Negotiations Leads to Wasted Days at Bargaining Table
04.14.16 -- CVS representatives on Tuesday sat on their hands for more than eight hours — failing to respond to contract proposals or even meet with Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee members — then followed that up with another drawn-out session on Wednesday.
On Tuesday afternoon, CVS management emailed two proposals to the union. Local 727 fully and comprehensively responded to one of the proposals in detail. In return, company representatives considered the union’s position for approximately five minutes before calling Local 727’s response “totally unacceptable.”
“There is only one party whose behavior was totally unacceptable, and that’s CVS,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Management wasted the entire day Tuesday and much of the day Wednesday. CVS has made it clear it is eager to continue taking advantage of our pharmacy members with little regard for the current contract’s expiration or the Bargaining Committee’s valuable time.”
Negotiations were scheduled from at 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday and resumed at 10 a.m. Wednesday, but the company did not sit down face-to-face with the Local 727 Bargaining Committee until 2:37 p.m. Wednesday. At that time, CVS pharmacists finally were able to voice their concerns about many of the “quality of life” issues the union has emphasized in its contract proposals, such as unpaid mandatory job duties, sufficient tech help and vacation scheduling.
“There is not enough time in the week and the day to get our tasks done,” said CVS PIC Courtney di Iacova, a Local 727 Bargaining Committee member. “Not only that, the company holds so-called ‘voluntary’ meetings that aren’t just little perks with fun facts, they contain information that is necessary for us to do our jobs, and yet, we aren’t being paid to attend them. It’s not right.”
Union reps and CVS pharmacists also discussed how the contractually provided quarterly Labor-Management Committee meetings have not been effective in addressing pharmacists’ ongoing issues.
“I was in most of these meetings, and it stung to hear a member of management say they were not obligated to respond to us, that they were just there to listen,” said CVS steward Jeremy Aguila, a Local 727 Bargaining Committee member. “It feels like we’re talking to a wall.”
The union has proposed ways to improve Labor-Management Committee meetings while the company’s proposals are intended to limit the scope of topics that can be discussed during the meetings.
“These committee meetings only really work if concerns are addressed in a substantive way,” Coli said. “Otherwise, we wind up in a situation like what we have now, where we have to use precious time during contract negotiations talking about issues that could and should be resolved in Labor-Management Committee meetings. This should not be how the process works.”
Following five negotiation meetings, virtually no progress has been made toward reaching an agreement on a new contract for about 150 CVS pharmacists. Since Day One, CVS management has been demanding across-the-board cuts to pharmacists’ benefits with diminished protections.
“Many of the company’s proposals are designed to codify the mid-term contract changes they made – such as cutting store hours and taking away full-time benefits from pharmacists — and the union will not stand for it,” Coli said.
Additional bargaining dates have been scheduled for May 2 and May 3. The current three-year contract expires May 7, 2016.
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
On Tuesday afternoon, CVS management emailed two proposals to the union. Local 727 fully and comprehensively responded to one of the proposals in detail. In return, company representatives considered the union’s position for approximately five minutes before calling Local 727’s response “totally unacceptable.”
“There is only one party whose behavior was totally unacceptable, and that’s CVS,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “Management wasted the entire day Tuesday and much of the day Wednesday. CVS has made it clear it is eager to continue taking advantage of our pharmacy members with little regard for the current contract’s expiration or the Bargaining Committee’s valuable time.”
Negotiations were scheduled from at 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday and resumed at 10 a.m. Wednesday, but the company did not sit down face-to-face with the Local 727 Bargaining Committee until 2:37 p.m. Wednesday. At that time, CVS pharmacists finally were able to voice their concerns about many of the “quality of life” issues the union has emphasized in its contract proposals, such as unpaid mandatory job duties, sufficient tech help and vacation scheduling.
“There is not enough time in the week and the day to get our tasks done,” said CVS PIC Courtney di Iacova, a Local 727 Bargaining Committee member. “Not only that, the company holds so-called ‘voluntary’ meetings that aren’t just little perks with fun facts, they contain information that is necessary for us to do our jobs, and yet, we aren’t being paid to attend them. It’s not right.”
Union reps and CVS pharmacists also discussed how the contractually provided quarterly Labor-Management Committee meetings have not been effective in addressing pharmacists’ ongoing issues.
“I was in most of these meetings, and it stung to hear a member of management say they were not obligated to respond to us, that they were just there to listen,” said CVS steward Jeremy Aguila, a Local 727 Bargaining Committee member. “It feels like we’re talking to a wall.”
The union has proposed ways to improve Labor-Management Committee meetings while the company’s proposals are intended to limit the scope of topics that can be discussed during the meetings.
“These committee meetings only really work if concerns are addressed in a substantive way,” Coli said. “Otherwise, we wind up in a situation like what we have now, where we have to use precious time during contract negotiations talking about issues that could and should be resolved in Labor-Management Committee meetings. This should not be how the process works.”
Following five negotiation meetings, virtually no progress has been made toward reaching an agreement on a new contract for about 150 CVS pharmacists. Since Day One, CVS management has been demanding across-the-board cuts to pharmacists’ benefits with diminished protections.
“Many of the company’s proposals are designed to codify the mid-term contract changes they made – such as cutting store hours and taking away full-time benefits from pharmacists — and the union will not stand for it,” Coli said.
Additional bargaining dates have been scheduled for May 2 and May 3. The current three-year contract expires May 7, 2016.
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
Union Stresses Importance of 'Quality of Life' Issues, But Little Progress Made on Day 3
04.08.16 -- After three full days of contract negotiations between the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee and CVS management, very little progress has been made toward reaching a new agreement for about 150 Chicago-area pharmacists.
During the April 8 bargaining session, the union strongly reiterated its concerns over pharmacists’ quality of life issues, such as uninterrupted breaks, sufficient tech hours, preservation of the nine-hour workday, and elimination of demeaning tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
“Pharmacists are professionals whose top priorities are patient care and public safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “We are calling on management to take pharmacists’ concerns seriously and make progress on these quality of life issues so pharmacists can get back to focusing on taking care of their customers.”
Local 727 also made it clear at the bargaining table that management’s repeated demand to bargain over union representation status of pharmacy managers (PICs) is unlawful.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume April 12 and April 13. The current three-year contract expires May 7, 2016.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
During the April 8 bargaining session, the union strongly reiterated its concerns over pharmacists’ quality of life issues, such as uninterrupted breaks, sufficient tech hours, preservation of the nine-hour workday, and elimination of demeaning tasks that take away from pharmacists’ primary job responsibilities.
“Pharmacists are professionals whose top priorities are patient care and public safety,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727. “We are calling on management to take pharmacists’ concerns seriously and make progress on these quality of life issues so pharmacists can get back to focusing on taking care of their customers.”
Local 727 also made it clear at the bargaining table that management’s repeated demand to bargain over union representation status of pharmacy managers (PICs) is unlawful.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume April 12 and April 13. The current three-year contract expires May 7, 2016.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
CVS Holds Position to Cut Benefits, Diminish Pharmacists' Rights
04.07.16 -- CVS management made no movement from its unreasonable proposals during the second negotiation meeting with the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee on April 7.
The company continued to demand mandatory 14-hour shifts, the removal of PICs from the bargaining unit, the slashing of pharmacists’ vacation, holiday and overtime pay, and the removal of holiday work hour restrictions, among many other concessions.
“There is no legitimate reason for these proposals than other than to boost their bottom line, and the company already makes money by the truckload, so it’s completely unacceptable,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727.
CVS management also wants to intimidate pharmacists into giving up their vast individual legal rights protected under federal and state employment laws by forcing them to sign a waiver of the right to file lawsuits on a class, collective or individual basis; wage claims; charges/claims with the EEOC, the Illinois Department of Human Rights, and the Illinois Department of Labor; sexual harassment and all employment discrimination charges; and other such rights.
“The union absolutely will not allow the company to take away our members’ basic rights,” Coli said. “That proposal simply demonstrates how little the company thinks of its pharmacists.”
The Local 727 Bargaining Committee rejected the company’s unreasonable demands to cut benefits, diminish work protections and eliminate the Local 727 Optical and Legal & Educational Assistance Benefits.
Last year, CVS paid $107,236 in contributions on behalf of members to participate in the Local 727 Legal & Educational Assistance Benefit Funds. The Fund’s Board of Trustees paid CVS members $159,312 in tuition reimbursement alone, not even taking into account the legal benefits provided to CVS members.
“The Legal & Educational Assistance Benefit is clearly a net positive for the group. If we are truly acting in the best interest of these pharmacists, there is no reason to eliminate this benefit,” Coli said.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume at 9 a.m. April 8, with additional meetings set for April 12 and April 13. The current three-year contract covering about 150 CVS pharmacists expires May 7, 2016.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
The company continued to demand mandatory 14-hour shifts, the removal of PICs from the bargaining unit, the slashing of pharmacists’ vacation, holiday and overtime pay, and the removal of holiday work hour restrictions, among many other concessions.
“There is no legitimate reason for these proposals than other than to boost their bottom line, and the company already makes money by the truckload, so it’s completely unacceptable,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727.
CVS management also wants to intimidate pharmacists into giving up their vast individual legal rights protected under federal and state employment laws by forcing them to sign a waiver of the right to file lawsuits on a class, collective or individual basis; wage claims; charges/claims with the EEOC, the Illinois Department of Human Rights, and the Illinois Department of Labor; sexual harassment and all employment discrimination charges; and other such rights.
“The union absolutely will not allow the company to take away our members’ basic rights,” Coli said. “That proposal simply demonstrates how little the company thinks of its pharmacists.”
The Local 727 Bargaining Committee rejected the company’s unreasonable demands to cut benefits, diminish work protections and eliminate the Local 727 Optical and Legal & Educational Assistance Benefits.
Last year, CVS paid $107,236 in contributions on behalf of members to participate in the Local 727 Legal & Educational Assistance Benefit Funds. The Fund’s Board of Trustees paid CVS members $159,312 in tuition reimbursement alone, not even taking into account the legal benefits provided to CVS members.
“The Legal & Educational Assistance Benefit is clearly a net positive for the group. If we are truly acting in the best interest of these pharmacists, there is no reason to eliminate this benefit,” Coli said.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume at 9 a.m. April 8, with additional meetings set for April 12 and April 13. The current three-year contract covering about 150 CVS pharmacists expires May 7, 2016.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
CVS Demands Across-the-Board Cuts as Negotiations Open
03.30.16 — While the Teamsters Local 727 Bargaining Committee presented proposals to address safety concerns through improved working conditions, more technician hours and increased overlap, CVS management demanded across-the-board cuts to pharmacists’ benefits with diminished protections as contract negotiations opened on March 24.
The company claims its unreasonable proposals — such as mandatory 14-hour shifts; slashing pharmacists’ vacation, holiday and overtime pay; removal of holiday work hour restrictions; and elimination of Local 727 Optical and Legal & Educational Assistance Benefits — are more “in line with CVS policy” and allow for more “flexible scheduling.”
“What this company calls ‘flexible,’ our pharmacists call dangerous and draconian,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727 and Lead Negotiator for the Union Bargaining Committee. “Not a single one of their ridiculous proposals serves to benefit the professional pharmacists who are the face and lifeblood of their company.”
DOWNLOAD COMPANY’S COMPLETE INITIAL PROPOSAL
Meanwhile, the union’s initial contract offer — which is based on member demands gathered by the union via pharmacy visits, demands meetings at the union hall and online submissions — includes, but is not limited to, the following proposals:
DOWNLOAD UNION’S COMPLETE INITIAL PROPOSAL
“Dwindling tech hours is the top issue facing our members. Without adequate tech help, our pharmacists are forced to take on more and more duties. Simply put, they’re overworked and understaffed,” Coli said. “Plus, when pharmacists are overworked and not given thoughtful breaks — be they during shifts or during their vacation, sick or personal leave — this can affect their performance and overall well-being. All of these factors can ultimately impact patient safety.”
Additionally, CVS management is demanding to remove pharmacy managers (PICs) from the bargaining unit.
“The union will never, ever concede to that,” Coli said.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume April 7, with additional meetings set for April 8, April 12 and April 13. The current three-year contract covering about 150 CVS pharmacists expires May 7, 2016.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
The company claims its unreasonable proposals — such as mandatory 14-hour shifts; slashing pharmacists’ vacation, holiday and overtime pay; removal of holiday work hour restrictions; and elimination of Local 727 Optical and Legal & Educational Assistance Benefits — are more “in line with CVS policy” and allow for more “flexible scheduling.”
“What this company calls ‘flexible,’ our pharmacists call dangerous and draconian,” said John Coli Jr., President of Local 727 and Lead Negotiator for the Union Bargaining Committee. “Not a single one of their ridiculous proposals serves to benefit the professional pharmacists who are the face and lifeblood of their company.”
DOWNLOAD COMPANY’S COMPLETE INITIAL PROPOSAL
Meanwhile, the union’s initial contract offer — which is based on member demands gathered by the union via pharmacy visits, demands meetings at the union hall and online submissions — includes, but is not limited to, the following proposals:
- No pharmacist shall be on duty without at least one pharmacy technician on duty and shall have one pharmacy tech hour for every eight scripts filled
- Classification of regular full-time employees as those who work 30 or more hours per week
- Maintenance of nine-hour work days
- Stricter language to ensure pharmacists’ uninterrupted breaks and meal periods
- Additional paid holidays
- Maintenance of the Local 727 Optical Plan (VSP)
- Maintenance of the Local 727 Legal & Educational Assistance Benefit
- Creation of geographic clusters for floaters
- Pharmacists shall not be disciplined based on poor metrics or test scores
DOWNLOAD UNION’S COMPLETE INITIAL PROPOSAL
“Dwindling tech hours is the top issue facing our members. Without adequate tech help, our pharmacists are forced to take on more and more duties. Simply put, they’re overworked and understaffed,” Coli said. “Plus, when pharmacists are overworked and not given thoughtful breaks — be they during shifts or during their vacation, sick or personal leave — this can affect their performance and overall well-being. All of these factors can ultimately impact patient safety.”
Additionally, CVS management is demanding to remove pharmacy managers (PICs) from the bargaining unit.
“The union will never, ever concede to that,” Coli said.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume April 7, with additional meetings set for April 8, April 12 and April 13. The current three-year contract covering about 150 CVS pharmacists expires May 7, 2016.
If you have questions, contact your Local 727 business representative, Melissa Senatore, at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].