More than 2,000 Las Vegas tradeshow workers represented by Teamsters Local 631 have ratified a four-year contract, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters announced June 4. The agreement covers wages, benefits, automation protections, and workplace safety.
The agreement covers workers employed by more than 100 contractors. The bargaining unit includes exhibit builders, riggers, carpet installers, decorators, freight and material handlers, forklift operators, and aerial riggers.
Contract covers major tradeshow roles
Teamsters Local 631 members help set up and dismantle major tradeshows and conventions in Las Vegas, one of the country’s busiest convention markets.
The new collective bargaining agreement includes a 22 percent increase to wages and benefits. According to the Teamsters, the increase includes higher contributions to the Teamsters Health and Welfare plan and an enhanced pension.
In addition, the agreement includes protections related to automation and improved workplace safety measures.
“Tradeshow workers are essential to maintaining Las Vegas’ title as the convention and expo capital of the world,” says Tommy Blitsch, director of the Teamsters Convention, Tradeshow, and Casino Division and secretary-treasurer of Local 631. “The Teamsters are raising industry standards because our members are the best in the business and know their worth.”
Apprenticeship program supports labor pipeline
The agreement also highlights the role of Local 631’s training program. According to the Teamsters, all tradeshow members of Local 631 complete an apprenticeship program and earn journeyman certification.
ECN previously reported that the Southern Nevada Teamsters Local 631 Convention Training Trust offers entry-level training for tradeshow work. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience. It also focuses on safety, professionalism, and job-site readiness.
The most recent apprenticeship application window is currently closed.
Agreement follows member negotiations
“Our committee worked hard to make sure members’ voices were heard throughout negotiations,” says Wanda Vulgamore, journeyman and 21-year member of Local 631. “This is the best contract in Las Vegas tradeshow history, and it sets a strong foundation for our future. I’m proud of what we achieved together.”
For contractors, exhibitors, and show organizers, labor agreements help shape staffing, cost planning, safety expectations, and show-floor operations.
The contract announcement also comes as the Teamsters point to broader labor-policy activity in Washington. On June 9, the U.S. House passed the Faster Labor Contracts Act, which would set timelines for employers and newly organized workers to begin bargaining. The bill would also move unresolved first-contract talks toward mediation and arbitration. It now moves to the U.S. Senate.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters was founded in 1903 and represents 1.3 million workers in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more info, visit www.Teamster.org.
Press release submitted by International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Edited by Exhibit City News for clarity, length, and style.
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