The Republic Story will...

The Republic factory sit-in is “the start of a movement,” Rep. Jan Schakowsky, an Illinois Democrat, told the Associated Press, adding "This story has resonated around the world." Even President-elect Obama weighed in on the situation. In covering the window and door business for 25 years, I’ve never seen an industry-related story attract so much national media coverage.

The Republic story will... Tarnish the industry image Actually be helpful in raising the industry profile Have no impact on the industry as a whole If poll form doesn't work in your email, Click Here.

I doubt all the attention will do little good for Republic and/or Echo Windows, but do you think the industry will be tarnished by it? That’s our poll question for the week.

One union leader speaking on behalf of Republic workers proudly stated that the company produced windows that could help America become more energy independent. Will that message filter through? Are we in danger of getting painted with some broad brush that suggests we’re anti-labor? Or will this all blow over? Email me and share any and all your thoughts on the Republic situation. 

Contact John G. Swanson, editor & associate publisher, at john@glass.org.

Follow @JohnWDMag