Mayor Scott Backs IAM Local 4538 Workers Amid Apple Store Closure

TOWSON, Md. — Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott has voiced strong support for the approximately 90 members of IAM Local 4538, who are set to lose their jobs when Apple closes its Towson Town Center location on June 20.

In a statement, Mayor Scott emphasized his commitment to the workers, stating, "My office stands in full support of IAM Union Local 4538 Apple workers at the Towson Town Center. Baltimore is a union town, and we are known as the 'Birthplace of American Railroading.' We stand with the IAM Union, which began as a rail union and in 2022 organized the first Apple store in the nation, located at the Towson Town Center."

Scott highlighted the significance of the workers' organizing efforts, linking their achievements to a longstanding legacy of labor advocacy in Baltimore, which has historically included dockworkers and railroad employees fighting for fair wages and better working conditions.

The mayor pointed out that many of the employees affected by the closure are residents of Baltimore City who depend on public transportation to commute to work. He characterized the impending closure as detrimental not only to the workers but also to the local community.

Brian Bryant, International President of the IAM, commended Mayor Scott for his support and urged Apple to reconsider its decision before the closure date. "Mayor Scott understands what’s at stake here, not just for our members but for the city of Baltimore," said Bryant. "Apple workers in Towson voted to join the IAM, fought for and won a contract, and are now being punished for it. It is time for Apple to honor that agreement and do right by these workers before June 20."

The IAM Union recently organized a rally in Towson to advocate for the Apple workers, featuring participation from various local, state, and national officials, as well as labor and community supporters.

David Sullivan, IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President, reiterated the importance of solidarity among elected leaders in Maryland. "Our members at the Apple store in Towson proved that organizing works. Apple is now trying to make an example out of them. We will not allow that to happen," he stated.

As pressure mounts on Apple from various levels of government, including a recent letter from the Congressional Labor Caucus, the call for action on behalf of the Towson Apple workers continues to gain momentum.

Reported by HarborBeat based on IAM Union (source).