The conference exchanges information on contracts negotiated in the U.S. and, upon request, with contract negotiations and problem solving. Several policy meetings and a conference are held each year in designated cities as decided by the delegates. The Brewery and Soft Drink Conference is the Teamsters beverage trade division. The conference acts on common problems of all Teamster locals with members employed in the brewing and soft drink industries as well as in other related industries. Conference staff assists locals engaged in organizing campaigns in the beverage industry and initiate organizing campaigns at new plants built by national companies.
Staff is also available to provide assistance to local unions with contract negotiations.
Coordinating and promoting legislative activity on problems of mutual concern is another primary function of the conference. It has proven effective in winning such victories as national legislation supporting the legality of territorial franchising agreements. The division represents the International Union at the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department, Metal Trades Department, participates on their General Presidents' Committee on contract Maintenance, the Heavy and Highway Construction Committee, and under the National Maintenance Agreement Policy Committee. The division's association with these committees helps Teamster members gain employment in the industry. The division assists in the development and implementation of organizing campaigns in the construction and building material supply industries and provides assistance in the handling and resolution of construction jurisdictional disputes involving other international building trade unions, settling of grievances with contractors, as well as assistance in the negotiation of project agreements, maintenance agreements, and pipe line work.