Hersheypark Avoids Summer Disruption After Workers Approve New Five-Year Labor Agreement
Hersheypark visitors can expect a normal summer season after union workers and Hershey Entertainment & Resorts reached a new labor agreement, preventing a potential strike that could have disrupted operations at one of Pennsylvania’s most popular attractions.
Chocolate Workers Local 464, the union representing employees at Hersheypark and GIANT Center, voted to approve a new five-year contract following negotiations between union representatives and company officials. The agreement officially ends concerns about a possible work stoppage that had raised questions about the park’s ability to remain fully operational during its busy summer season.
In a statement, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts confirmed that Local 464 members voted to ratify new five-year agreements covering workers at both Hersheypark and GIANT Center. The company said it is pleased to have reached an agreement and looks forward to continuing to welcome guests throughout the summer as part of the park’s 120th anniversary season.
The labor discussions had attracted attention in recent weeks as negotiations continued without a finalized contract. According to information shared with local media, employee benefits were a key issue during the bargaining process and were among the factors that contributed to the lengthy negotiations.
Had an agreement not been reached, Hersheypark could have faced significant operational challenges. An employee familiar with the situation told local media that a strike might have forced the theme park to shut down for the summer or rely on outside contractors to maintain operations. Either scenario could have created uncertainty for guests planning visits during one of the park’s busiest periods of the year.
With the contract now approved, those concerns have been removed. The new agreement provides labor stability for the next five years and allows both sides to move forward without the threat of a strike.
For visitors, the outcome means park operations will continue as planned. Guests can expect Hersheypark to remain open throughout the summer season, with attractions, entertainment, and daily activities continuing without interruption.
The agreement also provides certainty for workers represented by the union while allowing Hershey Entertainment & Resorts to focus on serving guests during a milestone year for the company. As the summer travel season continues, the resolution of the labor negotiations ensures that visitors can enjoy their trips without concerns about possible closures related to labor disputes.
The ratification of the five-year contract marks the end of a period of uncertainty and secures continued operations at Hersheypark and GIANT Center for years to come.
Sources
- Hershey Entertainment & Resorts official statement
- WGAL News reporting on the labor agreement and union ratification vote
- Chocolate Workers Local 464 union information and contract vote details