The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) commended the Maryland congressional delegation on May 4 for supporting workers after Apple announced it would close its unionized retail store at Towson Town Center in Towson, Maryland, effective June 20.
The closure affects nearly 90 employees at the first unionized Apple retail location in the United States. The IAM Union said the store provides important access to Apple products and technical support for students, families, and small businesses in the Baltimore region.
In a letter to Apple, members of Congress led by U.S. Representative Johnny Olszewski and joined by Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks as well as Representatives Steny Hoyer, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Kweisi Mfume, Sarah Elfreth and April McClain Delaney said: “We urge Apple to reconsider whether there are viable paths forward that would preserve jobs and maintain a retail presence in the region. Maryland residents value employers who invest in their workforce and demonstrate a sustained commitment to the communities they serve. We stand ready to engage constructively with Apple to better understand this decision and to explore potential solutions.”
The IAM Union has filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board alleging discriminatory treatment against unionized workers at Towson. The union says that unlike employees at two other closing stores, those at Towson are not being offered transfer rights to other locations.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant said: “We praise the Maryland congressional delegation for having these workers’ backs and demanding answers from Apple. These workers made history by exercising their right to organize for a voice on the job. Walking away from them now sends a dangerous message to working people everywhere.”
Despite being located in what IAM describes as a strong-performing market with recent workforce expansion, Apple plans no reopening or relocation within Baltimore following this closure. The IAM Union says it will continue advocating for fair treatment of affected employees.
