Philadelphia Whole Foods workers vote to unionize despite anti-union tactics

Whole Foods logo shown above store in Cambridge, Mass. | Charles Krupa/AP

For the first time in its history, workers at the Whole Foods store in Philadelphia’s Art Museum District have voted to unionize with a 130-100 vote. This marks a significant setback for the anti-union efforts of Whole Foods and its parent company, Amazon. Organizing under the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), employees achieved union recognition with a clear majority, representing a historic step forward in their pursuit of fair treatment and workplace dignity.

The unionization effort at the Whole Foods store began earlier this year by workers seeking to address ongoing issues such as stagnant wages, inconsistent schedules, and insufficient support from management. Workers organized to demand union protections and a stronger voice in workplace decisions. “The reason I want a union is because I want workers to be paid and treated the way they deserve from these billion-dollar companies we make money for,” said Whole Foods worker Mase Veney.

The campaign encountered strong opposition from Whole Foods and its parent company, Amazon, both known for their extensive records of defying unionization efforts. Workers accused management of employing union-busting tactics, such as disseminating disinformation about the potential impacts of unionizing and delaying raises and benefits in the weeks leading up to the union vote.

Amazon’s anti-union tactics extend beyond efforts to prevent unionization and continue even after unions are formed. For example, after workers at a Montreal warehouse successfully unionized, Amazon shut down the facility, eliminating 1,700 jobs. This pattern of retaliation has become a defining feature of the company’s strategy to suppress worker organizing. “When you take that mask off, it’s just a corporation like all the others. They’re no different from an oil company or, you know, a Walmart even.” a Whole Foods worker told More Perfect Union.

According to reports, Amazon has been using its so-called “union-busting science” at Whole Foods locations. The report highlighted the company’s use of advanced data analytics and psychological tactics to identify and target potential union supporters, subjecting them to heightened scrutiny, isolation, or even termination. Workers at the Philadelphia store shared similar experiences, with some claiming they were called into one-on-one meetings with managers who pressured them to oppose the union.

Since acquiring Whole Foods in 2017, Amazon has been widely criticized for its efforts to suppress union drives, particularly in its warehouses and fulfillment centers. The company’s tactics have allegedly included surveillance, intimidation, and retaliation against workers who support unionization. However, the successful unionization of the JFK8 Amazon warehouse in Staten Island in 2022 demonstrated that workers could still overcome these challenges, inspiring further efforts like the one in Philadelphia.

Despite the threat of retaliation, the workers remained steadfast in their commitment to organize for better working conditions, finding strength in their solidarity and support of the local community. The workers’ perseverance led to a decisive 130-100 vote in favor of unionization.

The union victory in Philadelphia reflects a broader resurgence of labor organizing in the United States. In recent years, workers in industries ranging from retail to tech have taken steps to demand better wages, working conditions, and respect on the job. The Whole Foods campaign is part of this larger wave of workplace organizing, which has been fueled by rising income inequality, stagnant wages, and a growing recognition of the power of collective action.

The union drive in Philadelphia was not just a workplace struggle but a community effort. Throughout the campaign, workers received crucial support from local labor groups, activists, and customers, who rallied behind their fight for fair treatment. CBS News Philadelphia reported community members joined workers for rallies, amplifying their message and putting pressure on Whole Foods to respect workers’ rights.

This community support was instrumental in countering the company’s anti-union efforts and demonstrating the widespread demand for economic justice. It also highlighted the interconnectedness of labor struggles and the importance of solidarity in achieving meaningful change. Since the union’s announcement on Nov. 22, they have gained nearly 3,000 followers on Instagram, using the social media platform to debunk anti-union myths and spotlight the issues raised by their fellow workers.

With the union now officially recognized, workers at the Philadelphia store are preparing to negotiate their first contract. The bargaining process is expected to address key issues such as pay equity, scheduling, workplace safety, and benefits. Workers are also seeking greater transparency and accountability from management and a formal grievance procedure to address workplace concerns.

The negotiation process is likely to be challenging, given Amazon’s history of resisting union demands. However, the workers are optimistic about their chances of securing a strong contract. The union’s success in Philadelphia has already sparked conversations about organizing at other Whole Foods locations. According to Jacobin, workers at stores in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles have expressed interest in following Philadelphia’s lead. If these efforts are successful, they could create a ripple effect across the company, forcing Amazon to reckon with the growing demand for worker representation.

The workers’ victory at the Philadelphia Whole Foods store is a powerful example of the strength of collective action. In the face of immense challenges, workers came together to demand better treatment and a stronger voice in their workplace. Their success is a testament to the power of solidarity and the belief that a better world is possible.

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CONTRIBUTOR

Bradley Crowe

Bradley Crowe writes from Philadelphia.