While I am not surprised to see this, I remain disappointed that so many seem to accept these untrue allegations as gospel. B&H is not moving our warehouses to NJ capriciously and we are not doing so because of the union.
We CANNOT keep the Brooklyn warehouses open. As long ago as 2010 our Navy Yard landlord told us no lease renewal would be offered. Steiner Studio was (and is) scheduled to take over the space. The issue has not been whether or not we wish to stay but that we have no option and cannot stay.
Our search for new space was aided by the largest tri-state commercial real estate company and by the NY Economic Development Corp. Despite our efforts and theirs, we were obliged to expand our search from NY to include NJ.
Since the original vote on the union was Nov 2015 I think the dates speak for themselves.
The current boycott is being promoted mainly by two groups, one an independent labor-organizing group unaffiliated with the union, and the other a group which describes itself as a “socialist organization.” Most, if not all, the demonstrators outside our store have been from one or both groups, not former or current employees.
---------- Post added 07-24-17 at 12:38 PM ----------
Originally posted by SpecialK 70 miles is not a short commute, at least around here, which would be at least 2 hours each way. If it was 20 miles, I would agree.
I don't know the mileage offhand but on a typical weekday I get into my car to drive to the train station at 7:30am and arrive at my desk between 8:55 and 9:10. The average, each way, is 90 minutes.
---------- Post added 07-24-17 at 12:41 PM ----------
Originally posted by ChrisPlatt It will be impossible for the majority of B&H Photo's present workforce to commute or transfer. If not a calculated part of the plan it is at least an additional benefit to the owners.Chris
There is no benefit to management in the loss of qualified multi-year employees who have established their value and reliability. Every current employee in our warehouses has been offered the opportunity to continue working for us in our new facility. Some have already begun doing so. Any employee who declines will receive a severance package.
PS According to Google maps the distance from Florence NJ to Newark airport is <60 miles.