An overwhelming 89 percent of retail workers unite to request voluntary recognition of union
On Tuesday, workers from all three locations of Portland’s Coffee By Design formally requested voluntary recognition of their union, with a massive 89 percent of eligible workers having duly signed authorization cards expressing their desire to be represented by Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA).
“Our success is Coffee By Design’s success,” said Barista and Shift Lead Lauren Gamble., “We’re banding together to ensure the long-term viability of our being able to continue to serve the best customers in Maine. Fairness, consistency and predictability shouldn’t be a whole lot to ask for when it comes to being able to have the tools necessary to provide our customers the experience they want and deserve.”
Workers cite industry-low pay, uneven hours that lead to inconsistent benefits, an ad-hoc disciplinary system and working conditions that are incongruent with best practices as the impetus to form their union.
“The free and fair choice to form a union shouldn’t be up for debate,” said Barista Valen Doe. “With so many of us standing in solidarity for a better, more collaborative way forward, we trust that the ownership and management will see that working together is far more efficient and cost effective than the alternative. Either way, with our unified voice being amplified by the power of the Laborers’ union, I like our chances.”
“The teamwork, solidarity, courage and raw power being demonstrated by these workers is inspiring,” said Jason J. Shedlock, Regional Organizer and Secretary Treasurer of LINUA Local 327. “Working with them, two thoughts immediately come to mind: one, I can see why customers love them so much; their care, attention and authenticity is contagious. And two, they are curious, creative, smart and tough, so I’m awfully glad they are sitting on my side of the table!”
In light of the overwhelming demonstration of unity for a labor union, workers took a collaborative approach and requested voluntary recognition of a union. If that doesn’t occur, they will take their collective fight to the ballot box — with Maine’s union member, families and loyal customers with them every step of the way.