Over 100 Keurig - Dr.Pepper employees of Ottumwa are striking for better wages and work conditions

OTTUMWA, Iowa (KYOU) - More than 100 employees are on strike at Ottumwa’s Keurig Dr. Pepper facility.

They’re asking for more money and better healthcare benefits. KYOU’s Randall Gimm talked with their union representative as they picketed outside the facility for the third straight day.

Amid recent contract negotiations between Keurig Dr.Pepper and Union Workers,

Union representative Drake Custer said workers felt their requests were not being heard so they decided to take to the streets. Custer represents Teamsters Local 238, and he said more than 100 employees have been striking since Wednesday.

“These folks need to be recognized for the work that they put into this company. Right now, with the amount of work they put in, day in and day out, they start to feel like disposable/interchangeable parts instead of human beings, “Custer explained.

Custer says some employees haven’t gotten a day off in over two months, including weekends.

Custer said, “They’re not afraid of the hard work. It’s just the idea they have to be allowed some recovery time with their families. That’s what we all work for, is to build a life for ourselves and our families. “

Custer says the workers will continue to strike until the company gives them a better offer.

He said, “These people have decided that this is their line and until we get the acknowledgement and respect that we deserve, this is where we’re going to be. “