Workers at three Ayr Wellness dispensaries and a delivery depot in Nevada last week ratified their first union contract. The dispensary and delivery workers are unionized with the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 711.
Included in the contract are the implementation of armed security at dispensaries, improved access to affordable health care, and better scheduling opportunities.
In a statement, Chase Payne, an Ayr Wellness budtender from the Las Vegas Eastern Ave. Location, said the “contract represents more than just words on paper; it’s a testament to our resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to the cannabis industry.”
“We fought for fair wages, safe conditions, and respect – not just for ourselves, but for everyone who will come after us. This victory proves that when we stand together, we are unstoppable.” — Payne in a press release
Steve Shehata, an Ayr Wellness budtender from the Las Vegas Decatur Blvd. Location, added that the workers are “laying the foundation for more growth and opportunity within our industry and ensuring that we have livable wages, affordable health care, and an all around sound quality of life.”
UFCW has emerged as the largest cannabis industry union in the U.S. According to its website, it has amassed 418 organizing wins since 2020 with 290 dispensaries and 36 cultivation facilities organized with the union.
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