LAS VEGAS — Workers represented by Teamsters Local 631 have gone on strike at Rinker Quikrete, one of the nation’s largest building materials manufacturers, after contract negotiations broke down over health care, retirement benefits, and wages.
.jpg)
The strike involves employees who manufacture concrete pipe and box culverts and follows the company’s presentation of what union leaders described as a concession-heavy contract offer. Union members overwhelmingly rejected the proposal, prompting workers to walk off the job.
“Quikrete is one of the most profitable construction material companies in the country because of hardworking Teamsters,” said Tommy Blitsch, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 631. “Our members will hold the line as long as it takes. If Quikrete thinks we are going to fold, they are in for a long ride.”
According to the union, negotiations stalled after Rinker Quikrete pushed for multiple concessions despite reporting hundreds of millions of dollars in annual revenue. Among the most contentious issues were proposed changes to health insurance and retirement plans that would shift workers away from their current union-backed coverage and pension systems.
.jpg)
Union officials said the company’s proposals would significantly reduce benefits for employees and their families, creating financial and medical uncertainty for long-time workers.
“It’s extremely hurtful that Quikrete wants to take away our health care. I have a child with cancer, and the company wants me to pick between my paycheck and her medicine,” said Jose Lovos, a Quikrete Teamster and member of Local 631. “We aren't just striking for our jobs — we are striking because it is the difference between life and death for our families. We will not rest until we are guaranteed the health care and retirement plans our families rely on.”
Teamsters Local 631 said workers will remain on the picket line until Rinker Quikrete resumes negotiations in good faith and withdraws the proposed contract terms. The union represents workers across multiple industries in Southern Nevada, including construction, logistics, transit, and gaming.
The strike adds to growing labor tensions across the construction materials sector, as unions nationwide push back against benefit reductions amid strong corporate profits and rising costs for workers.
Originally reported by Teamsters Local 631 in PR News Wire.
.png)
