(PRESS RELEASE) WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from President and CEO Matthew Shay following the announcement that a tentative agreement has been reached between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association. The parties have been in negotiations since the labor contract initially expired in July 2022.
“On behalf of the retail industry, we are relieved to see the parties have come to a tentative mutual agreement on a long-term contract for labor operations at the West Coast ports, ending over a year of negotiations and uncertainty. A new agreement provides stability to the supply chain and assurance to the millions of businesses and employees who rely on smooth and efficient operations from the West Coast ports.
“The West Coast ports are a critical artery for retailers and other businesses into the U.S. market. We urge the parties to quickly ratify the tentative agreement to bring certainty back to the West Coast ports. It is essential to begin the negotiation process early for the next labor contract and avoid a future lapse in continuity.”
Earlier this month, NRF called on the Biden administration to intervene in the labor negotiations following disruptions at terminals at the Ports of Oakland and Long Beach.
In March, NRF organized a coalition letter to President Biden that was signed by more than 230 associations, urging the administration to work with the parties to conclude their negotiations.
About NRF
The National Retail Federation passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail succeed. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies.