America's Wake-Up Call: The Key Takeaways from the Dockworker Strike

With the recent strike among dockworkers along the East and Gulf Coasts, many Americans began to feel the ripple effects of relying on imported goods. Thousands of dockworkers halted the flow of imports and exports across major U.S. ports, leading to concerns about potential shortages of essential items like meat, seafood, alcohol, and even bananas.

 

While the dockworkers and port operators have reached a deal that will immediately end the crippling three-day strike, this strike is a powerful reminder of how vulnerable our supply chain can be when we depend on foreign imports. In a world where the availability of goods can be disrupted by labor disputes, global politics, or logistical failures, one thing becomes clear: sourcing food locally should be our standard.

 

Why Did The Dockworkers Go On Strike?

 

The strike started after negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), representing over 45,000 dockworkers, and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents shipping companies, failed to produce a new contract. The workers were demanding fair pay that reflects the record profits the shipping industry has reaped over the last few years. They also wanted protections against automation, which threatens to replace jobs.

 

The strike lasted for a total of three days. It was called off after news broke that the two sides have agreed to a 62% wage increase over six years. While this agreement is still tentative, all dockworkers were called back to work on Thursday, October 3.

 

During the three-day strike, ports from Maine to Texas came to a standstill, blocking the flow of goods, from cars to clothing, and more importantly, food. Products like meat, seafood, chocolate, alcohol, and fresh produce such as bananas and cherries were expected to be hit hardest, as these are among the goods heavily reliant on import channels now halted by the strike.

 

It wasn’t just fresh food that was at risk due to the strike. If the strike had lasted longer, we could’ve seen supply chain disruptions that raise costs on imported goods across the board—as more than $2 billion worth of goods enter these ports daily. And that’s where the key issue lies: if you depend on imports, you’re at the mercy of global supply chains, unpredictable events, and labor disputes halfway around the world.

 

Imported Goods: The Hidden Costs

 

When you rely on imported goods, you’re not just accepting the uncertainty of a fragile global supply chain—you’re supporting a system that can be less transparent, harder to regulate, and more difficult to control. Food that travels thousands of miles before reaching your plate often faces a higher risk of contamination, leading to a troubling lack of accountability when things go wrong and a greater risk in every meal. Additionally, imported goods can experience delays that leave shelves empty, and when that happens, prices for consumers can skyrocket. This creates unnecessary stress for families just trying to provide for their loved ones in an already challenging world. 

 

The strike is a perfect example of why shopping locally matters. If international imports were sitting idle at ports, companies that rely on foreign meat and food products could’ve been facing impending delays and potential shortages. These businesses would have had no choice but to pass the increased costs down to consumers.

 

This isn’t just about supply chain hiccups; it’s about the real impact on American families who are already struggling. Choosing local not only supports your community but also helps safeguard your family’s food security and peace of mind in uncertain times. You deserve the assurance of knowing where your food comes from and trusting in its safety.

 

Good Ranchers: 100% American, 100% Reliable

 

At Good Ranchers, our unwavering commitment to sourcing America’s best meat has always set us apart in the industry. From day one, we’ve worked with local farms and ranches to reconnect you with your food supply, ensuring that you know exactly where your meals come from. We don’t rely on imports from overseas to deliver quality to your table, and that means no strike relying on imports would affect us. Our commitment to sourcing American meat ensures that no matter what’s happening with international trade or global shipping, you can count on us for quality, consistency, and reliability.

 

Other meat companies, however, may not be so lucky. Many have built their business models around foreign imports, mixing overseas products with domestic ones. To make matters worse, most grocery stores and meat companies try to conceal where their meat actually comes from. After the repeal of the Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) law in 2015, even foreign meat can be labeled as “Product of USA” with minimal processing done here. That’s why it’s essential to find a provider who can guarantee transparency and integrity in their sourcing practices.

At Good Ranchers, we don’t believe in cutting corners, and we refuse to compromise on quality. That’s why we stand firmly behind our values of supporting American farmers and ranchers, even when it might be easier—or cheaper—to take shortcuts. With Good Ranchers, you can rest assured that you’re choosing a brand that prioritizes integrity and quality, putting American meat on your table with pride.

 

Supporting Local Is Supporting Yourself

 

Beyond just the peace of mind that comes from knowing your food is secure, buying 100% American meat also helps keep our economy strong. When you choose Good Ranchers, you’re investing in American jobs, family-owned farms, and our nation’s agricultural future.

 

So, as the news highlights how the strike would have impacted retailers and manufacturers dependent on international goods, just know that local, American companies will always have you covered. And when you choose Good Ranchers, you’re choosing dependable, locally sourced meat that won’t let you down—no matter what’s happening at the ports. Try Good Ranchers today and use code STOCKUP for $25 off your order, a free add-on for 4 years, and free shipping.