NRF Urges Groups to Avoid East Coast Port Shutdown

February 27, 2017  by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Industry   

The group said even a brief work stoppage would cause significant disruption of the supply chain and negatively affect the U.S. economy.

“While the union might have concerns with certain local government actions, engaging in a coastwide shutdown is not the answer,” said Jon Gold, NRF vice president for supply chain and customs policy. “We encourage labor and management to work together and with the government to arrive at a solution that does not disrupt the efficient movement of goods through the nation’s ports.”

Maritime trade publications have reported that the ILA is planning a one-day shutdown and march on Washington to protest “government interference” by the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor and state port operators in the Southeast.

The union hasn’t independently confirmed the reports, and no date for the proposed shutdown has been announced.

“We urge the ILA to reconsider its plans and avoid damaging the image of East Coast and Gulf Coast ports as reliable business partners for retailers and other shippers,” Gold said.

The U.S. Maritime Alliance represents terminal operators at the ports. The group’s labor contract with ILA expires in September 2018.