r/Hershey

Just saw some updates on the labor situation at Hershey Entertainment & Resorts. All three properties — Hersheypark, the Hershey Hotel, and the Giant Center — are currently holding strike authorization votes. Turnout has been notably strong over the past three days, with union members showing up consistently from morning through evening to cast their ballots

They’re hoping for some real movement from the company before the end of this week, but after rejecting three contracts from Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R), it looks like a strike is the likely next step. No official results will be released until every vote is counted.

The company already knows exactly what the union is demanding, yet negotiations remain stalled. They’ve put three contracts on the table that were essentially identical, with the third one actually being a step backward. All three were rejected by the membership — which is why this strike vote is now underway.

After three straight rejections, it seems the company keeps offering more of the same instead of addressing the core issues.

If you’re following this, feel free to share your thoughts below. Hoping the workers get a fair deal.

UNION STRONG

Sources:
• NY Post
• Fox 43
• Inside the Magic
• WGAL

BREAKING NEWS: UNION Employees at Hersheypark, The Hotel Hershey, and Giant Center OVERWHELMINGLY REJECTED the company’s third “last, best, and final offer” on Thursday, May 7, at 4 p.m. A vote on whether to authorize a strike is now scheduled for next week. Hersheypark is preparing to open seven days a week for the summer season on May 21, even as union maintenance workers continue critical contract negotiations with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts.

More than 200 SKILLED TRADESPEOPLE in the maintenance department including:

•Carpenters
•Electricians
•HVAC technicians
•Ride mechanics
•Plumbers
•Welders
•Machinists
•Painters
•Laborers
•Central plant operators
•Utilities
•Sign Artist
•Garage Auto Mechanics

All are ESSENTIAL to SAFE park operations and guest experience. These workers perform DAILY ride inspections, maintain park utilities, manage emergency responses, and ensure the facilities remain clean and fully operational. Their EXPERTISE CANNOT be easily replaced by third-party contractors.

While Hershey Entertainment & Resorts has historically been viewed as a strong union workplace, employees say key benefits have eroded over time. In these negotiations, the maintenance team is seeking fair wage increases, more affordable health insurance, and higher shift premiums on less desirable shifts. They are also firmly opposed to any proposals that would devalue skilled trades, lower professional standards, or set the stage for weaker wages for these critical roles in the FUTURE.

With the latest offer REJECTED, a strike vote next week could lead to a work STOPPAGE that DISRUPTS the planned May 21 opening. A strike WILL also AFFECT SUMMER CONCERTS and LIVE EVENTS at the Giant Center and Hersheypark Stadium, as the contractors who work alongside the park’s maintenance team to set up stages and events are fellow union members who will not cross the picket line.

The union will need the support from the local community in Hershey, Lebanon, Harrisburg, Lancaster, and surrounding areas. A potential strike would affect not only park operations but also the many local businesses that depend on Hersheypark’s visitors. The maintenance team welcomes community backing from those who value their skilled work and understand the importance of fair compensation for the people who keep the park safe and running smoothly.

UNION STRONG

Sources / References:
The post is based directly on recent local news reporting. Here are the main citations:
Primary source (May 21 opening, 200+ employees voting, three-day vote, absentee ballots due May 7):
“Strike at HE&R? Union Members Voting” – The Sun, May 6, 2026
https://news.thesunontheweb.com/articles/union-members-voting/
Contract expiration and 60-day extension:
“Union Contract Extended” – The Sun, March 18, 2026
https://news.thesunontheweb.com/articles/union-contract-extended/
Hersheypark daily summer opening:
Official Hersheypark site
https://www.hersheypark.com/plan-your-visit/blog/hersheypark-opens-for-120th-operating-year
https://www.hersheypark.com/plan-your-visit/hours

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