(NEW ROCHELLE, NEW YORK) – Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union/United Food & Commercial Workers (RWDSU/UFCW) Local 1102-represented Food Service Workers employed at Chartwells Compass Group at Iona University in New Rochelle New York, and Union Leadership, have taken a lead in labor negotiations by ratifying a contract with Artificial Intelligence (AI) protections.

“AI has the potential to impact all of our jobs,” RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 President Jack Caffey said. “That’s why we are making sure we get in front of the changes AI is bringing, so Members don’t get hurt and our contracts stay strong.”

The three-year contract delivers unprecedented wage increases, while fully maintaining the Members’ excellent health and benefit coverage, Union Representatives said.

In addition, Workers secured an increased uniform allowance, a key quality-of-life improvement that reflects the professional value of their work.

The agreement also addressed a growing concern of Membership: The impact of technology in the workplace.

Following the August 2025 opening of a new dining hall featuring AI-powered ordering kiosks and Just Walk Out grab-and-go technology, the RWDSU/UFCW saw firsthand how automation can displace experienced Staff.

Recognizing this potential threat to the Union Members at the college, RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 negotiated and secured a critical new contract that protects Members from the effects of future technological changes.

The agreement addressed a future concern: Even when jobs are not eliminated, automation can lead to arbitrary reassignments that disrupt seniority and could create difficult working conditions.

The language utilized in the contract codifies seniority protections and addresses future changes in the workplace, Union Officials said.

By securing safeguards in the agreement, RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 has set a critical standard for Union Members in the Digital Age.

This agreement will provide stability, fairness and dignity of work for the employees at Iona University, the RWSDU/UFCW said.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: RWDSU/UFCW Local 1102 Ratifies Contract with AI Protections – LaborPress