Will Dock Worker Strike Impact Mardi Gras?

SHREVEPORT, LA - The dock workers strike has a lot of folks nervous about being able to get goods delivered to local stores. We have already seen a rush on local grocery stores and big box stores.

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People have been buying up paper products and bottled water. They've also been snagging many essential products.

But others are more worried about things that are not typically made in the U.S. This would include things like coffee, some fruits and veggies, electronics, etc.

But another thing we haven't even thought about is Mardi Gras beads. We get almost all of our Mardi Gras beads from China. Those orders typically go in at about this time of the year. Some orders have already been in. But most of the beads don't arrive until later in the year.

What kind of impact could this have on Mardi Gras Krewes across Louisiana? KEEL News reached out to folks with the two biggest Krewes in our area to find out if they are worried.

Ricky Bridges With the Krewe of Centaur Says:

We are constantly in contact with our vendors. At this point it’s kind of a wait and see on how long the strike lasts. So far 2 of our vendors have received containers and we should have them in a week or so. We’re crossing our fingers that this gets resolved soon.

Tom Wyche with the Krewe of Gemini Says:

This strike could impact us since most of the time the beads arrive in the US from mid November to early January.  The wholesalers try to have everything shipped before the Chinese New Year which is January 29, 2025. Delivery depends on when the wholesalers place their bulk order which is usually in late August to early September.

These shipments from China typically include the beads, the cups and most of the specialty throws.

If this strike is prolonger, the Krewes might have to pivot to try to find alternatives.