IATSE Local 39 has successfully organized freight employees working for Expo Group in the New Orleans area.  On Thursday, February 7, 2013 the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) conducted an election on behalf of the employees.  The NLRB had determined that thirty-six (36) employees were eligible to vote.  On the day of the election, twenty (20) employees exercised their right to vote. The vote was 19-1 in favor of Local 39.

According to Don Gandolini, International Representative from the IATSE Tradeshow Department, “…the result is particularly satisfying because we were handily defeated by this employer just over a year ago.”  Since then, Gandolini has been assisting Local 39 in its efforts to address the concerns of the bargaining unit.  The outcome sends a clear message to the Expo Group that the IATSE is the union of choice for this group of employees. 

Once the NLRB provides official certification of the election, the Local will contact the employer to initiate negotiations.