Following its designation as the first Apple Store in the country to form a union, the Towson City Mall location has secured a groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement with Apple, yielding significant benefits for the retail workers. This victory follows a prolonged period of deliberation by the union regarding their contract negotiations.
Recently, a resounding 96 percent of unionized Apple Retail employees cast their ballots in favor of ratifying the newly negotiated labor agreement, effectively locking in the comprehensive benefits outlined within. I am thrilled to announce that the next generation of leaders has taken the reins at IAM Worldwide.
A landmark victory was secured by the courageous IAM CORE members at the Towson Apple retailer, setting a precedent for Apple retail employees across the country, demonstrating the potent force of collective action in achieving tangible results. The IAM has reaffirmed its capability to take on some of the world’s most formidable companies and emerge victorious.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ (IAMAW) Coalition of Organized Retail Staff (CORS), abbreviated as IAMAW CORS, represents approximately 85 retail employees. The proposed settlement aims to foster a better balance between professional and personal life, while also boosting remuneration and safeguarding job security for employees.
These modifications are accompanied by the entire benefits that Apple Retail Store union employees have already secured, and they are also able to negotiate for future advantages.
Of their , they write:
From inception, IAM CORE’s mission has focused on amplifying the Apple experience for its employees, customers, and surrounding communities. By securing a provisional agreement with Apple, we’re empowering our members to take control of their futures, paving the way for further improvements and milestones. Together, we’ve successfully cultivated a thriving foundation at IAM CORE’s Maryland hub, paving the way for future growth across retailers.
The staff at the retailer will have the opportunity to vote on this settlement by August 6th, with the agreement expected to run for a period of three years. Some notable benefits that workers can look forward to include:
- Enhanced scheduling functionality now includes robust safeguards for both full-time and part-time employees.
- Salary increases averaging a modest 10% across the entire duration of the agreement.
- Starting wages must increase significantly across various job roles to reflect the rising cost of living and ensure a decent standard of living for workers.
- Efforts to regulate working conditions of contract employees, coupled with a novel provision enhancing job security through enhanced severance benefits?
- Effective and Transparent Disciplinary Processes: Strengthened Protections and Enhanced Accountability
IATSE’s Japanese Territory Normal Vice President David Sullivan proudly declares they’re “extraordinarily proud to lead the charge in this fight on behalf of Apple employees,” making them the first union to take a stand.
