Powerhouse Animation Studios Workers in Texas Ratify Strong Union Contract with Overwhelming Support

At Powerhouse Animation Studios in Texas, animation workers have made significant strides by overwhelmingly voting to approve their first union contract. With an impressive 96% support from the voting members at the Austin-based studio, the pact has garnered strong backing from the Animation Guild, as announced on Tuesday. The Hollywood Reporter previously reported that the bargaining unit consisted of over 100 members, comprising both production workers and artists in roles such as animators, background designers, and production assistants.

Union Expansion Beyond Southern California

The ratification of the contract at Powerhouse Animation Studios represents a significant milestone for the Animation Guild as it expands its reach beyond Southern California. This marks only the second contract ratified by Animation Guild members outside of L.A. County. The first instance occurred at Titmouse New York, where union members ratified their inaugural contract in June 2023.

Although specific details of the new contract's key provisions were not immediately disclosed, the union's chief negotiator characterized it as "one of the strongest agreements" the union has ever achieved. Steve Kaplan, the business representative, praised the crew's unwavering commitment to their priority issues as the driving force behind this robust agreement. Kaplan also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of Powerhouse Animation and its leadership team, expressing gratitude for their flexibility and dedication to fostering a productive partnership with the union during the negotiations.

Powerhouse Animation Studios' CEO Expresses Pride in Historic Union Ratification

In a statement, Brad Graeber, the CEO and CCO of Powerhouse Animation Studios, expressed the company's pride and elation following the union's ratification of the deal. Graeber highlighted the studio's longstanding relationship with the union since its expansion to Los Angeles, emphasizing their commitment to collaboration. However, he also underscored the significance of the studio's deep roots in Texas and its pride in being part of the historic establishment of an animation union in the state.

Addressing Workers' Concerns and Recognizing the Union

The ratification of the contract marks the conclusion of an organizing drive that publicly initiated in April 2023. During this drive, workers expressed their aspirations to instate greater wage equality and job security. In July of the same year, the studio voluntarily recognized the union, demonstrating a willingness to engage with the workers' concerns.

Significance of the Union Contract for Powerhouse Animation Studios

The union contract holds significant importance for Powerhouse Animation Studios, symbolizing a progressive step toward addressing the workers' concerns and aspirations. By implementing measures aimed at fostering wage equality and job security, the studio demonstrates its commitment to creating a fair and supportive working environment for its employees.

Comparison with Animation Guild's Previous Ratifications

The ratification of the contract at Powerhouse Animation Studios stands out as a noteworthy achievement for the Animation Guild, especially in its endeavor to extend its presence beyond the traditional stronghold of L.A. County. The successful ratification at Titmouse New York earlier in the year serves as a testament to the union's expanding influence and its ability to advocate for workers' rights in diverse locations.

Broader Implications for the Animation Industry

The ratification of the union contract at Powerhouse Animation Studios resonates with broader implications for the animation industry as a whole. By establishing a union presence in Texas, the Animation Guild not only strengthens its foothold in a new region but also sets a precedent for similar initiatives in other states, potentially leading to a more unified and equitable animation workforce across the nation.

Future Outlook for Unionized Animation Studios

The successful ratification of the union contract at Powerhouse Animation Studios paves the way for further advancements in the animation industry's labor landscape. As more studios embrace unionization and engage in constructive negotiations with their workers, the potential for improved working conditions, fair compensation, and job security is likely to enhance, ultimately benefiting the entire animation workforce.

A Historic Milestone for Powerhouse Animation Studios

The ratification of the first union contract at Powerhouse Animation Studios marks a historic milestone for both the studio and the broader animation industry. With a resounding vote of support from the workers and the recognition from the Animation Guild, the studio has taken a significant step toward fostering a more equitable and supportive workplace. This achievement not only reflects the collective efforts of the workers and the union but also sets a precedent for future unionization endeavors in the animation sector.