Apple Shop Workers in Maryland Authorize Strike

Over the weekend, Apple retail workers in one location voted to strike and workers in another voted against unionization

The first labor union that Apple recognized formally was made up of employees at a Towson, Maryland, retail location in 2022.

On Saturday, the members of that union, which is a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, decided to accept the authorization to go on strike. The time at which this possible strike will take place has yet to be agreed upon.

The IAM Core Negotiating Committee stated that “this vote today is the first step in demonstrating our solidarity and sends a clear message to Apple.”

IAM CORE’s constant dedication to advocating for the rights and well-being of workers amid adversity is highlighted by the fact that the strike sanction vote was passed with a majority vote.

While we continue to have conversations with Apple management, we are committed to securing tangible improvements that will benefit all our employees.

The labour organization claims it has been negotiating with Apple since January 2023 regarding various issues, including salaries, work-life balance, and irregular scheduling concerns.

A spokesperson for Apple told Bloomberg, “We deeply value our team members, and we are proud to provide them with industry-leading compensation and exceptional benefits.”

Our engagement with the union representing our team in Towson will continue to be conducted in a manner that is respectful and in good faith.

In addition, Bloomberg reported that a vote to unionize a store in Short Hills, New Jersey, with the Communication Workers of America was unsuccessful.

Prior to the vote, the CWA filed a complaint alleging Apple engaged in unfair labor practices. The charge alleges that Apple retaliated against one of the organizers at the shop by scheduling “unprecedented multiple meetings with his supervisor and denying requests for leave.”

At the beginning of this week, the National Labor Relations Board ruled that Apple had broken federal labour rules in 2022 by seizing union fliers and questioning employees about their efforts to unionize at the Apple shop in the World Trade Center in New York City.