Workers at an Apple Store in Towson, Maryland made history two years ago by establishing a formally recognized union, becoming the first Apple retail store in the United States to do so. Now, these workers have reached a tentative contract agreement, setting a precedent for other Apple retail locations in the country.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ Coalition of Organized Retail Employees, representing around 85 employees at the Towson store, has shared details of the three-year agreement. The contract includes scheduling improvements, average raises of 10% over the contract’s duration, a severance clause, limits on contracted employees, and a transparent disciplinary process.
The union’s negotiating committee expressed optimism about the agreement, stating that it gives members a voice in their futures and marks a significant step towards further advancements. The union is set to vote on the deal on August 6, following negotiations that included a strike authorization vote by the workers.
While there have been efforts to unionize other Apple retail stores in the US, only two locations have been successful thus far. Apple’s contract negotiations with the union at an Oklahoma City store are ongoing, indicating a potential shift in the company’s labor relations.
Apple has not provided a comment on the recent developments, highlighting the significance of this historic contract agreement for workers at the Towson store and potentially setting a precedent for future negotiations at other Apple retail locations across the country. The vote on August 6 will determine the final outcome of this groundbreaking agreement, which could pave the way for improved working conditions and benefits for Apple retail employees nationwide.
