The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board on Apr. 27, alleging that Apple discriminated against unionized employees at its Towson, Maryland retail store.
The case centers on claims that Apple denied transfer rights and other opportunities to union-represented workers at the Towson location while offering such options to employees at two non-union stores slated for closure. The IAM Union says this constitutes unlawful retaliation for protected union activity.
According to the IAM Union, affected Towson workers were required to reapply for positions as if they were external candidates, rather than being given transfer opportunities provided to non-union staff in similar situations. The union alleges these actions violate federal labor law by treating organized employees differently from their peers.
“This is about whether workers are treated fairly under the law or punished for exercising their rights,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “Apple is denying union-represented workers the same opportunities it is giving to others — and doing so because these workers chose to organize. That is discrimination, and it is exactly what federal labor law is designed to prevent.”
The IAM Union reports that nearly 90 people work at the Towson store, which serves as a major retail and service center for Baltimore-area customers including students, families, and small businesses. The organization called on Apple to reverse its decision and ensure fair treatment for all affected employees.
