(A cargo ship near a U.S. port, highlighting the importance of maritime shipping to trade show logistics. Image courtesy of Paul Brennan via PublicDomainPictures.net.)
Tentative dockworker labor deal averts strike, ensuring uninterrupted shipping and supply chain reliability for upcoming trade shows
by Exhibit City News Staff
The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a tentative agreement on a six-year Master Contract, averting a potential work stoppage that had been scheduled for January 15, 2025. This agreement, which remains subject to ratification by both parties, ensures uninterrupted operations at East and Gulf Coast ports—an essential component of the supply chain for the trade show and events industry.
The joint statement from ILA and USMX highlighted the importance of the agreement for job security, modernization, and supply chain resilience:
“This agreement protects current ILA jobs and establishes a framework for implementing technologies that will create more jobs while modernizing East and Gulf coasts ports—making them safer and more efficient and creating the capacity they need to keep our supply chains strong.”
Industry Leaders Applaud the Agreement
The trade show industry responded positively to the announcement, emphasizing its critical role in maintaining supply chain reliability for upcoming events. Hervé Sedky, Chair of the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA) and President and CEO of Emerald Holding Inc., expressed relief:
“ECA is pleased that both sides were able to reach a positive resolution affirming that event-related shipping and transportation can continue without disruption. With thousands of meetings, conferences, and trade shows taking place nationwide in the coming weeks, this agreement will help ensure that the U.S. business and professional events industry gets off to a great start in 2025.”
Julie Kagy, Executive Director of the Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA), also welcomed the news but advised continued caution:
“While the tentative agreement is great news, we encourage you to stay cautious and proactive as negotiations may still require finalization. Early planning for shipments and collaboration with logistics providers remain best practices.”
Maintaining Confidence in Trade Show Logistics
A potential strike would have significantly disrupted shipping and logistics services, which are vital to the success of trade shows, conferences, and exhibitions across the nation. With the tentative agreement in place, exhibitors and organizers can look forward to a more stable start to the year.
However, industry leaders are reminding stakeholders to remain prepared. Proactive steps include scheduling shipments early, maintaining close communication with logistics providers, and updating exhibitors on any developments during the ratification process.
Kagy noted the broader importance of labor partnerships:
“This resolution underscores the importance of our partnership with organized labor in driving the continued growth and vitality of the events sector.”
Looking Ahead
As both the ILA and USMX move forward with their respective ratification processes, the trade show industry remains optimistic that this agreement will lead to long-term stability. Advocacy groups like ECA and ESCA are continuing to monitor the situation and provide guidance to ensure the industry is prepared for any potential challenges.
For now, the news represents a significant step toward safeguarding the seamless logistics operations that underpin the success of U.S. trade shows and events.
