Apple is set to shut down three of its retail stores, including one in Towson, Maryland, which holds the distinction of being the company’s first unionized location. The closures are scheduled for June 11, with the other affected stores located in Trumbull, Connecticut, and Escondido, California. The decision comes amidst reports of declining conditions at the malls housing these stores and follows the departure of several retailers.
While employees at the Trumbull and Escondido stores will be reassigned to nearby locations, approximately 90 workers at the Towson store are unable to be transferred due to restrictions from their collective bargaining agreement. These employees have been given the chance to apply for other positions within Apple.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers has expressed strong disapproval of the closure, labeling it as a potential act of union-busting. The IAM stated its outrage over Apple's decision to abandon the Towson store, emphasizing its importance to the local community and the workers who depend on it for employment and services.