FEATURED STORY:
Local 238 Teamsters Keeping Hy-Vee Groceries Supplied Throughout the Pandemic
Hy-Vee Grocery Stores Distribution Center in Chariton Iowa distributes two-thirds of products that make it to the shelves at Hy-Vee locations in eight midwestern states. We have just under 600 Teamster members who make it possible for products to reach their final destinations, from creating the pallet loads, whether it be dry goods, produce, or frozen products that will be loaded onto Hy-Vee trucks and delivered to any of the 240 retail grocery stores, Dollar Fresh retail stores, and Fast and Fresh convenience stores in all eight states.
Hy-Vee originated in Lamoni, Iowa, and operated as Hyde & Vredenburg Supply/Service Stores. At the conclusion of World War II, Chariton Wholesale Grocery was purchased and the corporate offices moved to Chariton, operating as the Chariton Distribution Center. In 1948 the warehouse facility opened, and along with 22 tractor-trailer trucks started servicing their grocery retail locations, and has grown today to have just under 500 full and part-time warehouse workers and 200 full and part-time tractor-trailer drivers.
The Chariton Distribution Center workers organized with the Teamsters in 1964 and have been strong members ever since, being active in their union, workplace, and community. The members in Chariton have seen many changes and challenges over the years, and with an ever-changing retail grocery shopping model, they have met each challenge head-on by standing together to reach the right outcome.
Even today with the Covid-19 epidemic the fact they continue to work together is a testament to their commitment to keeping shelves stocked with food and other necessities needed to ensure that we make it through these troubled times.
Contact Information
5000 J St SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
(319) 365-1461
