Workers at the first unionized Apple Store in the US have ratified a labor contract with the tech giant. It marks a significant milestone after a year and a half of challenging negotiations. The contract, approved on Tuesday, August 6, covers around 85 employees at the Towson, Maryland, store, which voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) in June 2022.
Contract Details And Benefits
The newly approved contract includes a raise of roughly 10 percent over the next three years for average workers. Additionally, the agreement ensures that employees will receive benefits comparable to those offered at nonunion stores. This resolution addresses a key issue from 2022 when Apple introduced new benefits initially excluded for unionized stores. The contract also guarantees severance pay for workers, ensuring stability in case of layoffs.
The store’s bargaining committee said:
“We are giving our members a voice in their futures and a strong first step toward further gains. Together, we can build on this success in store after store.”
Negotiation Challenges And Resolutions
The negotiation process was marked by disputes over equal access to benefits and changes in Apple’s scheduling policies for part-time workers. The union had expressed concerns that the policy changes would force several Towson workers to quit due to conflicts with other commitments. Workers even voted to authorize a strike in May if their concerns were not addressed.
However, the issues were resolved late last month. The contract now includes the newly introduced benefits and ensures that any future changes to benefits will be subject to bargaining. The company has also agreed to allow part-time workers affected by the scheduling policy to remain under the previous system if they choose.
The successful contract at Towson may influence future unionization efforts at other Apple Stores. Despite setbacks, such as the failed unionization vote at a Short Hills, NJ store and ongoing negotiations in Oklahoma City, the Towson agreement provides a precedent that could help future organizing campaigns. Experts suggest that the contract could alleviate fears about losing benefits or job security, which often deter union organizing.
Workers at the Oklahoma City store, currently negotiating their own contract with Apple, are hopeful that the Towson agreement will serve as momentum. Michael Forsythe, a member of the Oklahoma City bargaining committee, said the contract has generated considerable interest among his colleagues, who are planning a strike authorization vote this month.
Additionally, the Towson contract has sparked renewed interest in unionizing at other Apple locations. Kevin Gallagher, a longtime employee at Towson and now a machinists' union representative, reported inquiries from workers at other stores, indicating growing momentum for future organizing efforts.
