The group of employees who are attempting to organize a union at Apple’s Grand Central Terminal retail store in New York City are asking for $30 per hour, as well as increased tuition reimbursement, more vacation time, and additional benefits.
The group first began organizing earlier this year. The group took additional steps on April 16 that they hope will result in the store being the first Apple Retail location to unionize.
On Monday, Fruit Stand Workers United published its first website, which includes its request for increased wages and other benefits.
“For pay, we seek a minimum $30 for all workers, built up on a matrix based on role, tenure, and performance,” the organizers wrote. “For benefits, we seek more robust changes, like increased tuition reimbursement, faster accrued and more vacation time, and better retirement options, including higher match rates for 401(k) and enrollment into pension plans.”
The workers are also asking for improved health and safety standards, including research into security protocols, track dust, health effects from building materials, and noise pollution at Grand Central.
Apple employees can make anywhere from $17 to more than $30 per hour, depending on the market and their experience. New York City is the most expensive city to live in in the entire United States.
Apple issued a statement that said that it offers “very strong compensation and benefits for full time and part time employees.”
Back in February, Apple also began preparing to issue pay raises and other benefits to retail staffers as it sought to retain workers in this increasingly competitive labor market.
