America's largest discount tire dealer, Discount Tire, is attacking Illinois construction jobs by using DZI CONSTRUCTION SERVICES INC (DZI), who employs non-union subcontractors, to construct its new store in Machesney Park IL. "Non-union subcontractors undercut the established middle class wages and benefits of construction workers in our area," according to International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 150 handbill supplied by member Allan Showers.
The handbill, which has been passed out at the construction site and other Illinois store locations, provides phone numbers, urging supporters of fair wages to "please call either Discount Tire Inc's regional office (630.778.7171) or its CEO, Bruce Halle (408.606.6000), and ask how its choice to use DZI fits with its corporate philosophy: to treat people fairly and just be nice."
The site in Machesney Park site is also being picketed by Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local 32 out of Rockford IL.
Showers conveyed the reality of the current situation, with construction well underway, but stressed the need for exposing these kinds of practices regardless. "I think this one is going to stay rat," Showers told me via email, "but we might be able to make it right for the next guys in the next town."