Dictionary definition of “double-breasting”

double-breasting

n. use by a company of its non-unionized shops, factories, or subsidiaries for the same work contracted to its unionized facilities. Also double-breasted adj., characterized by such a practice. Subjects: English, Business, Employment, Jargon

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Citations: 1976 David B. Lipsky, Henry S. Farber Industrial and Labor Relations Review (Apr.) “The Composition of Strike Activity in the Construction Industry” vol. 29, no. 3, p. 401: Possibly it encourages contractors to operate in both unionized and non-unionized segments of the industry, i.e., to be “double-breasted.” 1978 Globe and Mail (Toronto, Canada) (Feb. 4) “Construction unions may have to lower expectations” p. B14: At least 20 per cent of the members of the National Constructors Association have recently gone double-breasted (setting up separate non-union companies, while the main shop is unionized) or have reorganized to do so. 1989 Mark A. de Bernardo Construction Products (May 1) “Anti-Double-Breasting Tops Labor’s Agenda” p. 75: Double breasting, also known as “dual shop operations,” has become a common construction practice in which a company maintains separate affiliates, one union and one nonunion, in order to compete and respond to market conditions.…Opponents of anti-double breasting say it is not only anti-employer, it is anti-worker. The bill could force nonunion workers in the open shop companies of double-breasted organizations to join unions if they are in a non-RightTo-Work state. 2003 Socialist Worker Online (Feb. 14) “What’s wrong with the freight deal” (in Chicago): The bankruptcy of Consolidated Freightways last Labor Day was the result of “double-breasting”—moving Teamster work to a nonunion subsidiary, Con-Way, while allowing the old company to go under and wipe out 15,500 Teamster jobs.

Posted 30 Mar 06 | Permalink | Tell a Friend