Pepsi-Cola Drivers in Georgia Unionize Despite Employer Resistance
Event summary
- 100+ Pepsi-Cola drivers in Atlanta and Lithonia, Georgia voted to join Teamsters Local 528 on January 21, 2026.
- Drivers cited mistreatment, underpayment, and workplace favoritism as key reasons for unionization.
- Pepsi-Cola deployed 15 HR representatives in an unsuccessful union-busting campaign.
- This follows a successful contract campaign by Local 528 with Keurig Dr. Pepper merchandisers.
The big picture
This victory for Teamsters Local 528 highlights growing labor organizing efforts within the beverage distribution sector, particularly among drivers. The successful campaign despite aggressive employer resistance suggests broader industry challenges around wages and workplace conditions. Similar dynamics have played out recently with Keurig Dr. Pepper workers, indicating potential for further unionization waves in logistics-heavy consumer goods sectors.
What we're watching
- Contract Negotiations
- How the union will leverage this victory to secure wage and benefit improvements in first contract talks.
- Employer Response
- Whether Pepsi-Cola will escalate resistance or seek cooperative solutions with Teamsters Local 528.
- Industry Trends
- The pace at which similar unionization efforts spread among beverage logistics workers in other regions.