The closure of Albertson's San Leandro Distribution Center coupled with an unprecedented opportunity to reorganize the LTL freight industry has prompted a reassignment of duties for Business Agents Dominic Chiovare and Bob Aiello. Beginning last month the following terminals were transferred from Aiello to Chiovare: Allied Box Company, Bakemark USA, BL Transport, Food Express (FXI), Integris Metals, Matheson Mail and MV Transportation. Aiello will retain Maritech and East Bay Taxi Drivers Association but his primary responsibility will be organizing.

Chuck Mack announced the change. “We have a real opportunity to increase our members in a core industry. We want to be positioned to take advantage of that opportunity;” Mack said. “The Albertson's closure gives us a chance to focus on organizing without reducing member service.”

Albertson's shut down was announced last year. It means a membership loss of about two-hundred. All affected members had the opportunity to transfer with seniority to other facilities in Northern California . Those who chose not to transfer received a generous severance package.

The purchase of Overnite and Master Cargo by United Parcel and USF Bestway-Reddaway by Yellow/Roadway along with “neutrality” and card check recognition has opened a wide door to organize in freight.

Aiello knows the task ahead is daunting, but he's up to the challenge. “This is new – it's different, but it's our future. I look forward to the challenge, especially working with members who are volunteer organizers;” he said.