Construction History: The Rise of the Open Shop in the 1970s Reshaped the Industry
AI Article Summary
The open-shop movement gained traction in the 1970s due to a combination of economic and social factors. This shift alarmed unionized construction workers and contractors as it challenged their traditional business model. Open shops, which employ both union and non-union workers, offered more flexibility and competitive pricing. This development marked a significant change in the construction industry's labor dynamics.
What This Means for Canadian Contractors
This project shows how shifts in labor models can significantly alter the construction industry's landscape. For Canadian builders, this means staying adaptable to labor trends is crucial, as changes can impact project costs and timelines. The example of the 1970s open-shop movement highlights the potential for new labor models to disrupt the status quo.
