Local Prop Store Fights to Survive amid Lengthy Hollywood Strike
Los Angeles, CA – As the SAG-AFTRA strike persists past the 100-day mark, small businesses are feeling the strain of the ongoing labor dispute, with many struggling to keep their doors open. Among them is Faux Library Studio Props, a prop store that has been an integral part of Hollywood’s magic for decades.
Marc Meyer, the owner of Faux Library Studio Props, has spent years amassing a warehouse filled with period piece treasures, used to dress film and television sets. However, with the Hollywood strike at a standstill, his business has ground to a halt.
Previously, the store would see an average of 15 to 20 trucks a day, picking out various set dressings, desks, furniture, and books. However, the strike has left Meyer’s business devoid of its usual activity. The impact is not only affecting his livelihood but also his landlord, who is not receiving any income from the building.
To cope with the financial strain, Meyer had to make the difficult decision to lay off all but one of his 15 employees, many of whom had been with the company for over a decade. They are now relying on unemployment benefits to make ends meet. The toll of the strike is not lost on Meyer, who finds it heartbreaking to witness the effects on his loyal team.
The ramifications extend beyond Faux Library Studio Props. According to the California Film Commission, the film and TV industry employs over 700,000 individuals statewide, with thousands more across the country. Economists estimate that the strike’s economic impact has surpassed a staggering $5 billion, including revenue loss incurred by supporting businesses.
Meyer expresses his frustration, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the detrimental impact on the side businesses that support the studios. He urges the striking actors and studios to find common ground, understanding that the entire industry is hurting.
The members of the SAG-AFTRA Actors Union initiated the strike 100 days ago, demanding fair wages commensurate with inflation, protections against artificial intelligence, and a revamped streaming residual structure that provides fair compensation for creators when their work is reused. Meyer believes that compromise is essential, with producers needing to consider making concessions to ensure that all industry professionals receive fair compensation.
In a joint statement, the Actors Union and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers announced that negotiations will resume on Tuesday, providing a glimmer of hope for resolution.
To support Marc Meyer and help his business weather this challenging period, consider visiting his GoFundMe campaign at https://gofund.me/23dd5edb. Every contribution counts in keeping the doors of Faux Library Studio Props open, allowing them to continue creating the magic that enriches the film and television industry.
While the strike continues to impact countless individuals and businesses, it is crucial for all parties involved to remember the shared struggles faced by those in the industry. By finding common ground and working towards a fair and equitable resolution, we can ensure the preservation and prosperity of Hollywood as a whole.