In November, the union representing dockworkers at the Gulf and East Coast ports and port operators will resume contract negotiation talks on outstanding issues.

Earlier this month, the dockworker’s contract was extended until Jan. 15, 2025 to avoid a prolonged strike. While a tentative wage agreement was reached, the parties are still divided on key issues. While the two sides declined to speak to the media about the details of the negotiation before the meetings in New Jersey, it is well known that port automation was a sticking point.

Listen to the MDM Podcast, featuring the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors CEO Eric Hoplin, for more details about the negotiations and distribution’s stance on port automation.

Officials from the International Longshoremen’s Association and United States Maritime Alliance say they “welcome the opportunity to return to the bargaining table and get a new agreement in place as soon as possible,” according to a joint letter published on Oct. 25.

Check out the latest coverage on how distributors braced for and responded to a three-day port strike on MDM Premium’s Logistics Liaison.