FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP - A major beer distributor at the Shore has locked out drivers and warehouse employees after failing to reach an agreement on a new contract.

The lockout by Shore Point Distributing Co. Inc. late Sunday night had workers protesting on Route 33 Monday morning, jeering replacement workers and wondering how they would pay their bills and get health insurance.

"No benefits, after being here 28 years," said Harold Fargo, of Toms River, a driver with four children ranging in age from 5 to 20. "It's a real big concern. We don't know where to go from here. I spent my whole (career) here. Now I'm 47. This is all I know."

Shore Point Distributing delivers beer, including Coors and Corona to stores, bars and restaurants in eight counties in central New Jersey. It says it is the state's biggest craft beer distributor.

The stalemate comes as the summer tourism season gets close. First up: Cinco de Mayo, a holiday marketed heavily by beer makers, is Friday.

Shore Point Distributing officials didn't respond to requests for comment. Officials with the workers' union, Teamsters Local 701, said Shore Point has brought in non-union replacements to fill in.

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The contract affects 120 workers, whose wages can amount to $21 an hour, plus commission.

The employees have been working without a contract since the previous one expired March 31. The company last Thursday presented what it called its final offer and threatened to lock workers out on Sunday, union officials said.

The offer, according to Teamsters officials, called for workers to accept: a three-year wage freeze; higher health insurance costs; and a move from a pension plan to a 401(k) retirement plan.

"We couldn't give into those demands," said Ron Lake, secretary-treasurer for Teamsters Local 701.

The union noted that they haven't voted to strike and wanted to continue negotiating.

Meanwhile, workers protesting outside the company's distribution plant Monday morning said it was their first work stoppage in 30 years.

"I don't have a job," said Pete Hess, 64, a driver from Toms River, who has worked for the company for 43 years. "I'm not getting a pay check right now. I was hoping to retire soon. This will affect me right now."

Michael L. Diamond; 732-643-4038; mdiamond@gannettnj.com