Some big worker strikes took place in the United States in 2024

Worker strikes were a significant issue in 2024. From dockworkers to Starbucks baristas, tens of thousands of employees walked off their jobs in conflict with management. 

Several of the strikes were more local, not affecting overall operations, but one strike could have caused supply chain issues that would have impacted the holiday season and beyond. 

PORT STRIKES COULD HAVE ‘DEVASTATING’ IMPACT TO ECONOMY, RETAIL TRADE GROUP SAYS

Dockworkers strike at the Bayport Container Terminal in Seabrook, Texas, on October 1, 2024. Officials at 14 ports along the US East and Gulf Coasts were making last-minute preparations on September 30 for a likely labor strike that could drag on the (MARK FELIX/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Port Workers Strike

On October 1, approximately 47,000 dockworkers from the International Longshoreman’s Association went on strike, affecting 36 ports on the Gulf and East coasts. It was the first strike on the East and Gulf ports since 1977. The strike came about as a result of failed negotiations with the U.S. Maritime Alliance over pay and automation at the ports. 

One analysis by J.P. Morgan said the strike could cost the U.S. economy up to $5 billion per day. 

The strike was suspended after two days, when the union and employers reached a conditional offer of a 62% wage increase. However, the suspension of the strike and extension of the master contract lasts only until January 15, 2025, five days before President-Elect Trump takes the oath of office. President Biden and Trump have spoken of their support for the dockworkers and their union demands for salary and reducing automation. 

U.S. PORT WORKER SPEAKS OUT ON THE PICKET LINE: ‘WE’VE TAKEN LESS THAN WE’VE DESERVED IN THE PAST’

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 2: Striking dock workers at the Red Hook Container Terminal walk a picket line after members of the International Longshoremen’s Association, or ILA, began walking off the job the day before, October 2, 2024 in the Red Ho (Photo by Andrew Lichtenstein/Corbis via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Boeing Machinists Strike

On September 13, 2024, more than 33,000 machinists represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers went on strike following a rejection of 25% wage increase over four years. It was the first work stoppage at Boeing since 2008. The workers sought higher pay increases, and better retirement benefits. The strike led to the suspension of Boeing aircraft modes including the 737, 772, and 767, and their military counterparts. The strike caused issues with delivery schedules and losses were estimated at nearly $1 billion per month. 

BOEING STRIKE COSTLIEST IN ECONOMIC DAMAGE SO FAR IN 2024

Union members react as Aerospace Machinists District 751 President Jon Holden (out of frame)…