Apple retail employees want to form a union so they can collectively organize and demand better working. conditions Apple has been outspoken about its opposition to the idea and has tried to discourage workers from joining a union. Not long ago, workers at Apple’s Grand Central Terminal location demanded a $30 minimum wage, along with benefits like “more vacation time and better retirement options.” The pressure Apple is facing has prompted it to take some steps to appease its workers. It recently announced that it would raise the minimum wage for retail employees . Now, it appears that Apple has agreed to make work hours at its retail stores more flexible, so that employees are happier and don’t feel the need to form a union.
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According to reports, Apple has informed staff at some stores that the changes will take effect in the coming months.
In addition, changes are proposed that would allow employees to work no more than five days in a row. Until now, they could work six days in a row. However, there will be exceptions during product launch periods and during holidays. Full-time employees will be eligible for a special weekend day off every six months.
It is said that some of the changes that Apple will bring will take effect in the coming weeks, while others will take place later in the year.
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Apple vs unionism
When Apple learned that retail employees had begun unionization efforts, it didn’t react well. In a leaked memo last month, the company suggested that unionization would “ change the way we work .” Apple’s retail chief, Deirdre O’Brien , then sent a video to U.S. retail employees in which she discouraged them from unionizing.
The Communications Workers of America (CWA) responded to Apple's reaction by claiming that the company is conducting a "systematic campaign" to intimidate its employees and interfere with their rights to unionize.
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Before announcing the more flexible work hours, Apple had announced other changes amid its unionization plans. The company doubled paid sick days, increased vacation days, and more. At least one Apple Store reportedly canceled its unionization vote after these changes, but it may take more from the companyto get all employees the idea.
Source: 9to5mac.com
