2014 Union Win Rates Increase Over Same Period in 2013

Unions participated in more representation elections and won a larger percentage of those elections during the first six months of 2014 compared to the same time period in 2013. Yet, the overall number of employees that become union members declined. What does this mean? It means that the average size of bargaining units has decreased – perhaps a result of the surge in micro units. Other statistics include: Teamsters participated in the most elections (145); Machinists had the highest win rate (90%); Unions organizing companies in the manufacturing industry had the lowest win rate (44%); and Unions won 72% of elections of 1-49 workers, 60% of elections of 50-99 workers, 79% of elections of 100-499 workers, and 54% of units over 500 workers.

Matt Austin is a lawyer based in the Columbus, Ohio office of Roetzel & Andress, LPA who limits his practice to representing employers dealing with labor, employment, and OSHA matters. You can call Matt at (614) 723-2010 or email him at maustin@ralaw.com.