Dock Worker Strike Could Ripple Through GA Economy
GPB
Longshoreman along the East Coast are threatening to strike after contract talks broke down this week between the dock workers and cargo shippers.
A strike at Georgia’s ports could have a drastic effect on the state’s economy, as one in 12 Georgians’ jobs is dependent on the ports.”
“A very short strike would have almost no impact; a very prolonged, drawn-out strike would have a substantial impact,” says UGA economist Jeffrey Humphreys.
The effects would show everywhere from store shelves—some of which could be empty—to Atlanta’s airport, says Humphreys.
With no cargo coming in, the bellies of many jets would also go unfilled.
Meanwhile, some businesses are already shifting orders through West Coast and Gulf Coast ports. Aaron’s, Inc., the Atlanta-based rent-to-own chain, is one.
“We bring the things through Houston or a West Coast port over onto the East Coast,” says Mitch Paull, Sr. VP of Merchandising and Logistics for Aaron’s.
The two sides have until the end of September to come to an agreement.
Multiple calls and Emails to the longshoremans’ union in Savannah were not returned. Attempts to get comment from the Georgia Ports Authority were also unsuccessful.
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