(1) UPS is making billions; its Small Package Division is profitable. Give-backs are simply unrealistic.
(2) Part-timers significantly outnumber full-timers. While voter turnout among PT ishistorically low, you can bet that should UPS attempt to eliminate PTbenefits, it would surge (similar to how voter turnout among AfricanAmericans surged during the 2008 election). It's possible benefits could be cut for new hires, but not current.
(3) Full-timers are already generously compensated. In recent years, shippers have complained about soaring shipping costs. Given that FedEx has almost completely rebuilt its Ground network in the past decade (including building more than a dozen very large hubs built for huge long-term growth; and now the company's experimenting with rails), and the organic growth of regional carriers (such as OnTrac out west), UPS cannot continue to sustain such large price increases year after year. Demanding $2-$3 annual raises in addition to absorbing soaring health care costs is beyond realistic. If UPS keeps its current top pay (with raises equal to inflation) + continues to absorb all increased health care costs, it'd be more than generous. In order to secure its future -- which equates into our (young & future employees) -- UPS needs to remain competitive.