For the second time in a year and right in the middle of the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting, being held April 25-May 3 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, the Carpenters’ union that works at the facility went on strike.

Talks had been ongoing between the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority and Local 8 of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, but ultimately broke down today.

“Over the course of months of discussions, the center and our management team at SMG have provided ample evidence to union leadership that work rule changes in Chicago and other venues have benefitted unions by attracting more business and customers, resulting in more work hours for union members,” said Gregory J. Fox, chairman of the Board of Directors of PCCA.

He added, “It is important for everyone to look to the future and move past the current policies that have hindered the Center’s growth and success.  I am concerned that the Carpenters are hurting their own membership and tens of thousands of hospitality jobs in the region that rely on the major shows and events hosted by the Center.”

According to PCCA officials, the Carpenters “are unwilling to agree to work rule changes that would provide exhibitors with greater flexibility to build their booths and displays as they can in comparable, peer facilities in other cities.”

Representatives from Local 8 of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America have not commented as of this time.

Retailers Forum, the leader in wholesale merchandise will keep our readers informed on this matter.