The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) said on April 10 that it is outraged by Apple’s decision to close its Towson, Maryland store, which was the first unionized Apple retail location in the United States.
The closure has raised concerns among workers and community members who rely on the store for services and access to public transit. The IAM Union said this move could be an attempt to undermine union efforts at Apple locations.
In a statement, the IAM Union said, “The IAM Union is outraged by Apple’s decision to close its Towson, Md., store—the first unionized Apple retail location in the United States—and abandon both its workers and a community that relies on it for critical services and its unique access to public transit. Apple’s claim that the collective bargaining agreement prevents relocation is simply false and raises serious concerns that this closure is a cynical attempt to bust the union. We are exploring all legal options and will work with elected officials and allies to hold Apple accountable. We stand with our IAM Coalition of Organized Retail Employees (IAM CORE) members and the community that depends on this store for essential access and support.”
The IAM Union represents about 600,000 active and retired members working in industries such as aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, among others across North America.
The situation reflects ongoing tensions between large corporations like Apple and labor unions as they negotiate workplace rights. The outcome may have broader implications for organizing efforts at other major retailers.
