Show Labor

The Pennsylvania Convention Center works exclusively with labor broker Elliott-Lewis to coordinate all show labor requirements.

Drawing from a highly experienced workforce, Elliott-Lewis’ representatives work with show managers and contractors to ensure that all activity is carried out as efficiently and as cost-effectively as possible.

Since 2003, the Center’s Customer Satisfaction Agreement has made it easier and less expensive for show contractors and exhibitors to conduct business within the building. These rights are among the most progressive in the industry.

Examples

  • Streamlined load-in and efficient setup and breakdown
  • Flexible work rules allowing exhibitors to erect and break down booths up to 300 square feet
  • Our “Eight Straight” policy establishes straight time paid for the first eight hours (Monday through Friday), saving you money.

Elliott-Lewis’ Responsibilities

  • Eliminate all labor disputes and disruptions during setup and tear-down of a show.
  • Make a single entity (PCC/Elliott-Lewis) accountable for ensuring that the new work rules and Code of Conduct are enforced.
  • Coordinate pre-event, labor planning meetings with individual contractors (all pre-planning discussions and agreements are followed up in writing from Elliottt-Lewis).
  • Assist individual contractors with the development of their manpower plans for upcoming events.
  • Educate the contractors on the "do's & don'ts" of the PCC's Customer Service Agreement (how to work in the building).
  • Serve as the primary interface with the PCC's trade unions on fulfillment of labor call.
  • Organize and monitor labor calls for all contractors working on the floor (general contractor and Installation & Dismantle companies as well).
  • Re-allocate and backfill contractor labor calls to overcome temporary labor shortages.
  • Resolve jurisdictional disputes without the direct involvement of either the customers and/or exhibitors.
  • Proactively inform exhibitors of their new rights contained within the PCC's Customer Satisfaction Agreement (in writing).
  • Ensure that the PCC's Code of Conduct is strictly enforced at all times on the show floor.
  • Coordinate post-event labor meetings with the contractors to review the show, before, during and after potential operational issues.
  • Accumulate and analyze all man-hour/labor cost data from an event for possible use by the show contractor and planner/organizer for future shows.
  • Handle all employment/payroll administrative functions for union labor, to include: daily timekeeping, weekly payroll processing, unemployment insurance claim, workman's compensation insurance and claims, and processing of union fringe benefits.
  • Respond to post-show inquiries from customers regarding labor costs.
  • Manage any union personnel actions that may be necessary (disputes or performance issues).
  • Negotiate and manage "PCC-only" favorable collective bargaining agreements with the trade unions.

To discuss your labor needs, please contact Elliott-Lewis directly at 215-418-2196.