(TOWSON, MARYLAND) - The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Coalition of Organized Retail Employees (IAM CORE) has overwhelmingly ratified a historic three-year agreement with Apple that improves work-life balance, raises pay and helps protect job security.

Workers employed at the Towson, Maryland Apple Retail Store - the first in the country to Unionize, are now the first in the Nation to ratify a contract with Apple. 

IAM International President Brian Bryant said: “The historic agreement secured by the courageous IAM CORE Members at the Towson Apple Store sets a new standard for Apple Retail Workers nationwide, proving the undeniable power of collective bargaining.  The IAM has proven once again that we have the strength to take on some of the biggest companies in the world and win.” 

IAM CORE represents approximately 85 Workers at Apple’s Towson Retail Store.

IAM CORE Members, who in June 2022 became the first Apple Retail Store to organize into a Union in the United States, had been negotiating with Apple management since January 2023.

In May 2024, IAM CORE Members voted overwhelmingly to approve a Strike sanction against Apple as management continued to stall negotiations.

“Through tireless dedication, the IAM CORE Negotiating Team secured a contract that not only meets but exceeds the needs and expectations of our Members, but sets a standard for Apple Workers,” the IAM CORE Negotiating Committee said. “This ground-breaking agreement will undoubtedly serve as a model for future negotiations, empowering Retail Workers across the industry.  Now we must grow the IAM CORE in Maryland and beyond.” 

Highlights of the new three-year agreement includes: Work-Life Balance: Scheduling improvements with protections for both current and part time Members; Pay Increases: Average raises of 10% over the life of the contract and increases in starting pay for 80% of job classifications; Job Security: Limits on Contracted Employees and a severance clause; and Transparency: A fair and clear disciplinary process with protections and accountability.

The agreement maintains all current benefits and includes an agreement to bargain over any future additions.

The IAM is one of North America’s largest and most diverse Industrial Trade Unions, representing 600,000 Active and Retired Members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, health care, automotive and other industries. 

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: IAM CORE, First U.S. Unionized Apple Retail Store Workers, Overwhelmingly Ratify Historic Labor Agreement with Tech Giant  - IAMAW (goiam.org)