Commercial bakers are calling on Biden to intervene

Washington, DC, October 3, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Yesterday, the American Bakers Association joined 296 other business-oriented groups in sending a letter to President Biden calling on the administration to immediately use its authorities to end the terminated strike all container ports on the East and Gulf Coasts. The letter highlights the dire situation and the massive negative impact on our industry and economy.

“It is more important than ever for President Biden to intervene and invoke the Taft-Hartley Act, which would force ports to resume essential operations while negotiations between port operators and longshore workers continue,” said Eric Dell , president and CEO of the American Bakers Association. “Every day that container ports on the East and Gulf Coasts remain closed costs the U.S. economy billions of dollars, with serious impacts on the commercial baking sector and American consumers.”

The strike puts $2.1 billion in daily trade at risk, with potential economic losses estimated to reduce GDP by up to $5 billion per day, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. A recent report from Oxford Economics said the strike could slow U.S. GDP growth by $4.5 billion to $7.5 billion per week if it continues. With 45,000 port workers on strike, the disruption could affect up to 105,000 jobs in related industries if prolonged.

About the American Bakers Association

The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the largest, most established, and most diverse trade association for the commercial baking industry in the United States. The ABA community includes more than 350 member companies, representing over 1,200 commercial baking operations and the industry's extensive supply chain. Since 1897, ABA has served as the voice of the baking industry, providing compelling advocacy, insightful thought leadership and comprehensive research on industry trends. ABA members also benefit from comprehensive corporate services, including world-class networking events, impactful knowledge sharing, and effective workforce development programs and training resources. ABA is committed to enhancing its mission by expanding the category and promoting the industry as a destination workplace.

CONTACT: Zachary Hastings Hooper American Bakers Association 202-531-2512 [email protected]