The National Retail Federation today released the following statement from NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay following concerns of a potential labor strike at U.S. ports on the East and Gulf Coasts. The International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance have until Sept. 30 to reach a new contract.

“NRF continues to call upon the International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance to return to the bargaining table to resume negotiations in order to reach a new deal before the contract expires on Sept. 30. The threat of a strike during the peak shipping season has many retailers already implementing costly mitigation strategies.

“At a time when inflation is on the downward trend, a strike or other disruption would significantly impact retailers, consumers and the economy. The administration needs to offer any and all support to get the parties back to the table to negotiate a new contract.”

In June, NRF led a coalition of 158 state and federal trade associations in a letter to President Biden urging the administration to work with the negotiating parties to reach a new agreement.

Earlier this year, NRF sent a letter to ILA and USMX calling for the resumption of port labor negotiations.

As the leading authority and voice for retail, NRF will continue to advocate for policies that ensure supply chain resiliency.