Union files labor charge against Apple over Towson store closure

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers has filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board, accusing Apple of discriminating against unionized workers at its Towson, Maryland, retail store. Earlier this month, Apple announced the closure of three stores: Apple Towson Town Center in Maryland, Apple North County in Escondido, California, and Apple Trumbull in Trumbull, Connecticut. The company cited declining conditions and the departure of other retailers at the malls where the stores are located. The Towson store drew particular attention because it was the first Apple retail location in the U.S. to unionize. Apple said employees at the Trumbull and North County stores could continue their roles at nearby locations, while Towson workers would be eligible to apply for open roles at Apple in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement. The IAM Union pushed back, saying the move raised serious concerns that the closure was a cynical attempt to bust the union. The union said it would explore all legal options and work with elected officials and allies to hold Apple accountable. In its charge filing, the IAM Union accused Apple of denying Towson employees transfer rights and other opportunities provided to non-represented employees impacted by store closures at other locations. The filing states that Apple discriminated against IAM-represented workers in regard to their terms and conditions of employment in order to discourage them from exercising their rights under the National Labor Relations Act. IAM Union International President Brian Bryant said Apple is denying union-represented workers the same opportunities it is giving to others because these workers chose to organize. He called the action discrimination and said it is exactly what federal labor law is designed to prevent. The union also held a press conference reiterating its call on Apple to reverse course and treat Towson workers fairly.