Employees at Apple Store in Maryland have authorized its first-ever strike against the tech giant as they fight for fair working conditions.
The union pushed for a vote last May 11 which officially authorized the workers to perform a scheduled walkout.
(Photo : Andy Wang via Unsplash)
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Apple Store in Maryland Pushes Strike Against Apple
According to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers' Coalition of Organized Retail Employees, which represents the workers, the vote was made after more than a year of negotiations with Apple management. Moreover, the union emphasized that the discussion only resulted in "unsatisfactory outcomes."
The employees will be protesting against Apple's "unpredictable" scheduling practices, proper wages that match the local cost of living, benefits, and more.
Last week, the union members started to give away information packets about the strike to further justify the need to protest. It was indicated that a strike fund of $200 will be given to union strikers who will participate once it reaches over 14 days. Employees cannot be discharged or permanently replaced for their cooperation.
Apple to Witness First-Ever Union Strike From Retail
The Apple Store in Towson, Maryland is considered as the first retail store to unionize when it was approved in June 2022. A store in Short Hills in New Jersey is also now seeking unionization and is represented by the Communications Workers of America.
As of writing, the Maryland union has yet to finalize the date for the strike. However, the union emphasized the need to voice the employees' tentative agreements so they could protect their rights. The union claimed that the retail giant was guilty of unfair labor practices.
Previously, Apple shared a statement citing that they have been cooperating with the Maryland employees. "We deeply value our team members and we're proud to provide them with industry-leading compensation and exceptional benefits," the company added.
Related Article: Apple's Unionized Maryland Store Preps for Negotiation, Possible Strike
