The leather for every single NFL football, including the ones that will be used in the Super Bowl, is crafted by members of UFCW Local 1546 who work at the Horween Leather Company in Chicago. The 150 hard-working men and women of the Horween Leather Company have been UFCW members since the 1960s.
“Every great play on the field fills me with pride,” said Earl Ferguson, who works as machine operator at the Horween Leather Company and is a member of UFCW Local 1546. “When Tom Brady or Matt Ryan throw touchdown passes this Sunday, it’s going to be with a ball that my union family and I helped to craft.”
“It doesn’t just take a high-level of skill to throw a football, it takes a lot of talent to make one too,” added Ferguson. “Our union contract ensures the great value we bring is fully realized and results in better wages, better benefits and a better life. We’re proud that our hard work can make a difference to something as big as the Super Bowl.”
Can a person purchase those footballs? Does it have the UFCW Local Number on the football?
Thanks for your email. Please call Local 1546 regarding your interest in purchasing a UFCW-made football at 312-733-2999.