ThinkStockThe National Retail Federation called on both sides involved in labor talks at ports on the East Coast and Gulf Coast to reach an agreement without a work stoppage, which would force diversions and delays of cargo.
Talks are scheduled to take place in Florida Wednesday through Saturday between the United States Maritime Alliance, which negotiates for port terminal operators and ocean carriers, and the International Longshoremen’s Association. The current contract expires Sept. 30.
“The negotiations come at a critical time as retailers are in the process of making final decisions on whether to divert cargo from the East and Gulf Coast ports in order to avoid potential disruptions,” Matthew Shay, president of the NRF, wrote in a letter dated Monday.