WASHINGTON, DC - Earlier this month, we reported on port labor negotiations taking place between the Pacific Maritime Association and International Longshore and Warehouse Union. It was recently announced that a tentative agreement has been reached between the two organizations, and the National Retail Federation (NRF) issued a statement in response.

“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,” President and Chief Executive Officer Matthew Shay wrote in the statement. “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.”

Shay continued in the statement, noting, “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, a press release explained.

In March, NRF also 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.

For more updates on labor negotiations in the industry, you can find us here on the pages of ANUK.

National Retail Federation