IAM Union Midwest Territory leaders, including General Vice President Sam Cicinelli and Local 701 Directing Business Representative Mark Grasseschi, recently visited C. Cretors and Company in Wood Dale, Illinois. The company is recognized for manufacturing popcorn machines that are used worldwide.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has represented employees at Cretors since the early 1950s. This longstanding relationship has contributed to a stable partnership between labor and management at the family-owned business.
“In a world where so much production has moved overseas, it’s essential that iconic products like Cretors popcorn machines are still union-made right here in Illinois,” said Cicinelli. “Every Cretors machine that leaves the shop floor ships with an IAM union label, and that’s a point of pride for our members and their families.”
“Our members have been creating magic at Cretors for decades,” said Grasseschi. “This is a family-owned business with family values, and our members are part of that family. It proves what can be accomplished when labor and management work hand in hand.”
Cretors & Co., founded by Charles Cretors, introduced the first steam-powered popcorn machine at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This innovation allowed corn to be popped in hot oil instead of over open flames, resulting in more consistent quality and influencing how snacks were made and sold across the United States.
The company’s steam-driven carts became common outside theaters, ballparks, and fairgrounds. Over time, its product line expanded to include wagons for roasting peanuts, baking chestnuts, and serving hot drinks.
IAM members continue to contribute to the company’s position as an industry leader with its equipment present in venues globally.
