IAM CORE Members at First Unionized U.S. Apple Retail Store Prepare for Strike Sanction Vote

TOWSON, Md., May 8, 2024 - In a move to address unresolved workplace concerns, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Coalition of Organized Retail Employees (IAM CORE), the first U.S. Apple workers to join a union, have authorized a strike sanction vote for employees at the Apple retail store in Towson, Md. The vote will take place on Saturday, May 11.

This action follows over a year of negotiations with Apple management that failed to produce satisfactory solutions on issues critical to IAM CORE members, including work-life balance, unpredictable scheduling practices that disrupt personal lives, and wages that do not reflect the cost of living in the area.

"Despite persistent efforts to engage in constructive and meaningful dialogue, Apple has unfortunately not addressed our core concerns," said IAM District 4 Directing Business Representative Jay Wadleigh. "This strike sanction vote sends a strong message that the workers want Apple to recognize the need for an equitable and respectful work environment for all its employees. IAM CORE remains committed to fostering a democratic and fair workplace for all Apple workers. We believe this vote presents a crucial opportunity for employees to have their voices heard."

Earlier this year, IAM CORE released findings from its independent survey of Apple employees in response to the tech giant's recent "Workers Rights Assessment," which was commissioned to address shareholder concerns and employee activism.

IAM CORE's survey uncovered discrepancies with Apple's official report and highlighted a concerning pattern of alleged illegal behavior by the company. The survey highlights unlawful terminations and collective punishment directed toward workers seeking to exercise their right to organize and join a union.

IAM CORE represents approximately 100 employees at Apple's retail store in Towson, Md. IAM CORE members, who in June 2022 became the first Apple retail store to organize into a union in the United States, have been negotiating with Apple management since January 2023.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America's largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.

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