Apple's Anti-Union Arguments Revealed in Leaked Staff Memo
Apple is reportedly coaching US retail store managers on how to talk employees out of unionizing.
Based on talking points obtained by Vice(Opens in a new window), Apple highlights unionization consequences such as fewer career opportunities, less flexibility, and the company disregarding merit.
"There are a lot of things to consider. One is how a union could fundamentally change the way we work," according to the document. "The quality of your work may not even be a factor."
Apple stores in Georgia, Maryland, and New York have already filed for the first three union elections in the company's history. Employees at New York's Grand Central Terminal began handing out signature cards last month. If more than 30% express interest in joining a union, the group can petition the National Labor Review Board for a formal vote. Victory for workers could lead to the country's first Apple retail union.
Managers have adopted the company line during staff meetings, reading from a script(Opens in a new window) written from the supervisor's perspective. "I wanted to touch base if you have any questions," it reads, "and let you know a few of my thoughts." It's unclear how many store leaders have received a copy of this guidance document. While Apple hasn't publicly opposed unionization, Vice noted, its talking points strongly suggest a non-union stance.
Apple did not immediately respond to PCMag's request for comment.
Amazon workers in Staten Island last month narrowly voted to form the company's first unionized warehouse. But they're not alone: Documented cases of collective action from employees in the tech industry worldwide have grown since 2019 when the number more than tripled over the previous year. Unionization efforts, protests,
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