IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli and IAM Union Local 701 Directing Business Representative Mark Grasseschi, together with other union leaders, recently visited C. Cretors & Company in Wood Dale, Illinois. The company is recognized for manufacturing popcorn machines that are distributed worldwide.
IAM Union has represented workers at Cretors since the early 1950s. The relationship between the union and the company is described as strong and rooted in family 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.”
C. Cretors & Company was founded by Charles Cretors and became notable after introducing the first steam-powered popcorn machine at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This invention allowed corn to be popped in hot oil rather than over open flames, resulting in more consistent quality.
The company’s steam-driven carts were later seen outside theaters, ballparks, and fairgrounds. Over time, they expanded their product line to include wagons capable of roasting peanuts, baking chestnuts, and serving hot drinks.
IAM members continue to contribute to maintaining Cretors’ status as an industry leader, with its machines now present at venues worldwide.
