IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli and IAM Union Local 701 Directing Business Representative Mark Grasseschi, together with other union leaders, visited C. Cretors and Company in Wood Dale, Illinois. The company is recognized for manufacturing popcorn machines that are distributed worldwide.
IAM Union members have worked at Cretors since the early 1950s. The union has maintained a longstanding relationship with the company, supporting both workers and management.
“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., established 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 changed how popcorn was made and sold.
The company’s steam-driven carts became common outside entertainment venues such as theaters and ballparks. Over time, they expanded to produce wagons capable of roasting peanuts, baking chestnuts, and serving hot drinks.
IAM members continue to contribute to the company’s reputation as an industry leader, with its equipment found in locations around the world.
