In recent weeks, Apple retail locations in Manhattan and Atlanta have taken significant steps toward becoming the first formally recognized Apple union. Now, employees at the Apple store in Towson, Maryland have organized a union and petitioned to hold an official union election.
A New Era for Apple Retail Workers?
The newly formed union, called AppleCORE (Coalition of Organized Retail Employees), claims to have the support of the majority of employees at the Towson store. According to AppleCORE’s letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook, the decision to form a union is about workers gaining access to rights that they do not currently have.
"We have come together as a union because of a deep love of our role as workers within the company and out of care for the company itself," the letter states. "To be clear, the decision to form a union is about us as workers gaining access to rights that we do not currently have."
What’s at Stake?
The Atlanta store, represented by the Communications Workers of America, has listed several demands it wants from Apple, including:
- A living wage
- Cost of living adjustments
- Equitable stock options
Meanwhile, Fruit Stand Workers United, the union at the Grand Central Terminal store, is seeking a minimum pay of $30 per hour, more robust benefits, and better retirement options.
The Road to Unionization
In order to gain formal recognition, these unions must earn over 50% of votes at an election, orchestrated by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The Atlanta store could be first to unionize, as they’re expected to vote starting June 2. As of its announcement to file for an election, over 70% of more than 100 employees at the Atlanta store had indicated support for the union.
A Growing Movement
This marks the third Apple retail location in recent weeks to take significant steps toward becoming the first formally recognized Apple union. The movement is gaining momentum, with workers at the Grand Central Terminal store also trying to unionize.
What’s Next?
As the election approaches, it will be interesting to see how this plays out. Will Apple retail workers finally gain the rights they deserve? Only time will tell.
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