IAM CORE, First U.S. Unionized Apple Retail Store Workers, Ratify Historic Contract with Tech Giant

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 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 District 4 Directing Business Representative Jay Wadleigh, a Mainer and former Bath Iron Works shipbuilder, was part of the negotiating team.

“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,” said the IAM CORE Negotiating Committee. This groundbreaking 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.”

IAM CORE represents approximately 85 employees at Towson, Md Apple 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.

Highlights of the new three-year agreement include:

• 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.
• 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 landmark agreement achieved at Towson Apple is a direct result of the unwavering strength and solidarity of IAM CORE members,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “I am extremely proud of the patience displayed by IAM District 4 Directing Business Representative Jay Wadleigh, Eastern Territory Grand Lodge Representative David DiMaria, and the entire IAM CORE Negotiating Committee. This victory not only significantly improves pay and job security but also guarantees a fair and equitable workplace for all employees. Now we must work on securing a contract for more Apple workers throughout the nation.”