IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli and IAM Union Local 701 Directing Business Representative Mark Grasseschi, along with other union leaders, visited C. Cretors and Company in Wood Dale, Illinois. The company is known internationally for its popcorn machines.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has represented employees at Cretors since the early 1950s. The relationship between labor and management at the family-owned manufacturer is described as strong and based on tradition.
“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 rather than over open flames, which led to more consistent results and changed how snacks were prepared.
The company’s steam-driven carts became common outside theaters, ballparks, and fairgrounds. Over time, they expanded their offerings to include wagons that roasted peanuts, baked chestnuts, and served hot drinks.
IAM members have contributed to maintaining Cretors’ position as an industry leader whose machines are used worldwide.
