Overview
- The International Association of Machinists said Monday it filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging Apple denied unionized Towson workers transfer rights granted to staff at other closing stores.
- Apple says it followed the collective bargaining agreement and cites a clause giving Towson employees first choice if a new store opens within 50 miles in the next 18 months.
- The company allowed employees at the two non-union stores in Connecticut and California to move to nearby locations, while Towson staff were told to apply for open roles like outside candidates.
- Union leaders paired the filing with a grievance and a press event and they are urging customers and elected officials to press Apple for transfers as the Towson site heads toward a June shutdown.
- The closure touches an estimated 78 to about 90 workers and would push Baltimore-area repairs and support to Columbia or Annapolis as the NLRB reviews the complaint and Apple prepares its response.