Apple is set to permanently close its store at the Towson Town Center on June 11th, marking a significant shift for the mall, which has seen declining conditions and the departure of other retailers. This closure is part of a broader strategy, as Apple announced the shutdown of three stores located in malls across the country on Thursday.
The union representing employees at the Towson location, I AM, has expressed outrage over the closure, arguing that Apple’s reasoning for shutting down the store does not hold up. They claim that the company’s assertion that the collective bargaining agreement hinders relocation is incorrect, suggesting that the move may be an attempt to undermine union efforts.
Local shoppers, including frequent visitors like Linda Monroe, have noted the store's consistent foot traffic, describing it as a major draw for the mall. The Towson store was the first Apple outlet to unionize in 2022, which adds complexity to the situation amid a national trend of other retailers facing similar challenges.
Employees at the closing store will have the opportunity to apply for other positions within Apple, as stipulated in their collective bargaining agreement. The executive director of the Towson Chamber of Commerce, Nancy Harford, noted the store's popularity, highlighting the long lines frequently seen outside its doors.