The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is urging an antitrust probe as fire truck prices skyrocket, posing risks to public safety.
At a Glance
- The IAFF demands a federal antitrust investigation into the consolidated fire truck manufacturing industry.
- Three companies dominate about two-thirds of the U.S. fire and emergency vehicles market.
- Skyrocketing fire truck prices, now as high as $2 million, are attributed to industry consolidation.
- Long production delays and backlogs can extend up to four years.
Firefighters Raise Concerns
The IAFF, the largest firefighters’ union in the U.S., calls for federal intervention to address soaring fire truck prices. The spike in costs, now reaching up to $2 million per truck, is largely attributed to industry consolidation. This situation prompts concern as emergency services face budget constraints and extended wait times for essential equipment. Fire departments struggle to procure necessary apparatus promptly, posing significant threats to public safety.
Market Dominance and Reduced Competition
The IAFF and the American Economic Liberties Project have jointly appealed to the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission for scrutiny. They focus on three major companies—REV Group, Oshkosh Corporation, and Rosenbauer—controlling roughly two-thirds of the fire and emergency vehicle market. The union argues that this lack of competition results in excessive pricing and order backlogs, which can delay truck deliveries by up to four years.
Manufacturers’ Challenges
Manufacturers cite multiple challenges—supply chain disruptions, increased demand, inflation, labor shortages, and material costs—as reasons for the price hikes and delays. Oshkosh is investing in manufacturing capabilities and technology to mitigate these issues, whereas REV Group highlights labor and material costs as major obstacles. These factors contribute to varying pricing agreements, with potential price increases even after orders are confirmed.
Public Safety at Risk
The IAFF emphasizes the threat to emergency response capabilities, particularly in disaster-prone areas like California, where wildfires have been devastating. The union calls for a comprehensive Federal Trade Commission study to assess how market consolidation affects access to crucial emergency response components and services. Heightened awareness and regulatory measures aim to ensure a balanced market that benefits public safety.
