TOWSON, Md. — An Unfair Labor Practice charge has been filed against Apple by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, arising from the impending closure of the Towson store.
According to legal documents, the union alleges that Apple has “unlawfully discriminated” against its unionized employees at the Towson location. They claim the company has denied these workers access to transfer rights and opportunities that non-union employees at other locations impacted by closures are receiving.
The Towson site made history in August 2024 by becoming the first Apple Store in the United States to unionize, securing a three-year labor agreement following a remarkable 96% vote in favor.
“This matter centers around the fair treatment of workers under the law and the repercussions they face for asserting their rights,” stated IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Apple is depriving union-represented employees of the same opportunities afforded to others simply because they chose to organize. This constitutes discrimination and runs counter to federal labor laws intended to safeguard workers’ rights.”
A representative from Apple informed WMAR-2 News on April 9 about the decision to close the store, attributing it to the “departure of several retailers and declining conditions” at Towson Town Center.
Additionally, stores at Trumbull Mall in Connecticut and The Shops at North County in California will also be shutting down.
“Our team members at Trumbull and North County will retain their roles at nearby Apple Retail stores. Employees from Towson will have the opportunity to apply for available positions at Apple, in line with the collective bargaining agreement. We look forward to continuing our service to customers through other nearby stores, as well as via Apple.com, the Apple Store app, and at Apple Authorized Resellers and Service Providers throughout the region.”
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In light of the union’s charge, Apple has firmly rejected the allegations.
“We strongly disagree with these claims and will continue to honor the agreement that was reached with the union. We look forward to presenting our case to the NLRB,” Apple stated in response to inquiries from WMAR-2 News.
MORE: Officials question reason why Apple Store is leaving Towson Town Center
Apple further noted that the union accepted that in circumstances involving a store or mall closure, the company would facilitate employee transfers or rehiring if a new store is established within a 50-mile radius of the current Towson location.
“In alternate circumstances, the union negotiated for severance. While we currently have no plans to reposition in the area, should we open a new store within 18 months, Towson team members would have the right of first refusal,” Apple added.
The Towson Apple Store is slated to close on June 11.
