As the midnight deadline for a new contract approaches, 18,000 Teamsters workers at Costco threaten to strike if negotiations fail. The union demands an industry-leading contract reflecting the company's record profits. Costco recently announced pay increases for nonunionized workers, a move seen as a strategy to reduce strike incentives. While the Teamsters represent only 8% of Costco's workforce, the strike's significance could impact the nonunion sector. Costco stands firm, asserting long-term goodwill with the union and emphasizing its competitive payment structure. The situation remains fluid as talks continue ahead of the deadline.