Philadelphia Whole Foods Market becomes first to unionize
Philadelphia Whole Foods Market becomes first to unionize
Employees at the Philadelphia store cast 130 votes — or about 57% of the ballots cast — in favor of joining a local chapter of The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union for the purposes of collective bargaining. According to the National Labor Relations Board, which oversaw the election, 100 workers rejected the motion.
PHILADELPHIA - Workers at a Whole Foods Market in Philadelphia have made history by voting to unionize, marking the first successful labor organization within the Amazon-owned grocery chain. The vote, which saw 57% of ballots cast in favor, is a significant step for organized labor in Amazon's retail operations.
The union aims to negotiate for better wages, health care, and working conditions.
What we know:
Employees at the Whole Foods store in Philadelphia voted 130-100 in favor of joining the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) Local 1776. This marks the first successful unionization effort at an Amazon-owned grocery store. The National Labor Relations Board oversaw the election process.
The backstory:
Amazon acquired Whole Foods in 2017 for $13.7 billion and has since resisted unionization efforts across its various businesses, including grocery stores, delivery services, and warehouses. The Philadelphia store's employees began organizing early last year, partnering with UFCW Local 1776 in the summer and petitioning for an election in November.
What they're saying:
Wendell Young IV, president of UFCW Local 1776, stated, "This fight is far from over, but today’s victory is an important step forward." Whole Foods expressed disappointment in the election outcome but emphasized its commitment to maintaining a positive work environment and offering competitive compensation and benefits.
The other side:
Whole Foods claims it provides competitive wages and benefits, including 401(k) plans and mental health support. However, the company did not disclose its average hourly rate. It also faced accusations of unfair labor practices, including firing a worker in retaliation for union activities, which it disputes.
What's next:
The union plans to bring Whole Foods to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair first contract. Meanwhile, Amazon continues to face unionization efforts, with upcoming votes at other locations, including an Amazon warehouse in North Carolina. The company has also challenged the National Labor Relations Board in court over past election disputes.