1,300 workers strike at Encore Boston Harbor over contract disputes
News provided byEncore Boston Harbor · 2 min read
More than 1,300 workers at Encore Boston Harbor, represented by Teamsters Local 25 and UNITE HERE Local 26, have gone on strike after the company refused to engage in good-faith bargaining for a new contract. The dispute began on August 20, following a 97 percent vote by Teamsters to authorize a strike if a fair contract was not reached.
According to Tommy Blitsch, Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division, Encore management had underestimated the resolve of the workers. "Encore has pushed our members to the brink by taking their labor for granted," Blitsch stated. "To keep the casino running, the company needs the workers who make it function."
The strike involves 211 Teamsters working in various critical roles, including the warehouse, horticulture, call center, cage cashiers, limo drivers, dispatchers, traffic attendants, valet, and guest experience attendants. These roles are essential for Encore's operations as a five-star resort.
James Atkins, a lead gardener and chief steward at Local 25, emphasized the workers' commitment to their role in maintaining the resort's world-class status. "We make Encore a world-class resort that generates enormous profits through our hard work," Atkins said. "We didn't want to strike, but we won't accept a contract that disrespects our labor. We are on the picket line and will stay out as long as it takes to secure a fair deal."
Encore Boston Harbor, which reported $847 million in revenue in Boston last year, had previously refused to offer meaningful contract improvements, even after the strike authorization vote. The company's management has been accused of slow-walking negotiations and playing games with the workers, leading to the current stand-off.
Thomas G. Mari, President of Local 25, warned, "Encore has made a big mistake by refusing to respect the workers who make its profits possible. When a company ignores the labor of its employees, we shut it down. The Teamsters will not cross picket lines and will not be intimidated."
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. The organization is committed to ensuring fair treatment and just compensation for its members.
The strike has significant implications for the resort's operations and local economy. With 1,300 workers on strike, the impact on customer service and resort maintenance is expected to be substantial. Both parties are now awaiting further developments in the negotiations.