Retailers Urge Quick Resolution at West Coast Ports

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) Vice President of Supply Chain Jessica Dankert issued the following statement in response to reports that union workers at West Coast ports walked off the job today, resulting in shutdowns at port terminals up and down the coast, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, Seattle, Tacoma, and Oakland.

“Retailers are alarmed to learn of the work stoppage underway at several West Coast ports. Our nation’s West Coast ports are a crucial link in the retail supply chain. Any interruption or disruption in their operations immediately has a ripple effect that impedes retailers’ ability to quickly and efficiently deliver for American consumers.

“With supply chains that have grown increasingly flexible and resilient under extreme circumstances over the last several years, leading retailers will continue to take every measure to ensure customers do not feel the impact of this activity. But it is imperative that all parties convene to resolve today’s stoppage as soon as possible, and continue negotiations to secure a formal labor contract that restores certainty and stability at the West Coast ports. If this work stoppage drags on and contract negotiations continue to falter, the Biden-Harris administration must step in and broker a deal.”

 
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RILA is the US trade association for leading retailers. We convene decision-makers, advocate for the industry, and promote operational excellence and innovation. Our aim is to elevate a dynamic industry by transforming the environment in which retailers operate.

RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad,
Tags
  • Public Policy
  • Supply Chain
  • Supporting Free Markets and Fostering Innovation
  • Transportation and Infrastructure
  • Workforce

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