The mechanical, production, and distribution employees are seeking respect, stability, and “a future they can count on” after going without a contractual pay increase for three years.
Workers at Brulin Holding Company in Indianapolis initiated a strike on October 3, 2025, against their employer, a specialty chemical manufacturer Brulin Holdings. The action, led by Teamsters Local 135, involves mechanical, production, and distribution personnel and stems from allegations of unfair labor practices (ULPs) committed by company management. The union asserts that Brulin has not negotiated a contract in good faith and has disrespected the dedicated workforce that maintains its operations.
The striking employees, who manufacture and distribute critical chemical products for industries ranging from aerospace to food service, are demanding fair wages and a commitment from Brulin management to return to the negotiating table to bargain honestly. According to the union, workers have been without a contractual pay increase for three years, despite the company reportedly seeing significant profits during and after the pandemic. The union has also filed an official unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
"Our members are united and will not back down until they receive the fair pay and respect they've earned," stated Dustin Roach, President of Local 135. "Brulin has violated federal labor law, refused to bargain in good faith, and disrespected the workers who keep its operations running. Our members are done with the company's games. It's time for Brulin to bargain a fair contract."
The workers expressed their frustration and reluctance to leave their posts but emphasized the necessity of the strike. "We don't want to be out here — we want to be inside earning a living for our families, but Brulin has left us no choice," said Michael Hooten, a machine operator and member of Local 135. "We're striking because the company broke the law. We deserve respect, stability, and a future our families can count on." Another worker, Richard Dean, a manufacturer at Brulin for two years, highlighted the management's corporate focus. "Instead of wanting to work with their employees, they're only about their business. Brulin is choosing their own profits over making their employees' lives easier," Dean commented.
The strike, which began in the early morning hours, has seen Local 135 members maintaining picket lines at company entrances. As of the time of reporting, there has been no public comment from Brulin Holding Company management.
Brulin Holding Company manufactures and distributes a comprehensive range of specialty chemical products like isopropyl alcohol and industrial cleaning solutions.
