Tue., Nov. 8, 2011

Apple isn’t really too keen on letting store workers unionize

Apple's retail stores seem a happy place. Unless you believe in unionizing the workers who toil there, in which case Apple may not be "liking" your Facebook page.

In response to at least one serious effort to create a union for Apple store workers, the Cupertino head office sent out notices this week and asked store managers to take part in a training course today, Tuesday.

A CNET story lays out the key goal of the training: "This course is intended to provide managers with a practical understanding of how unions affect the workplace, how and why employees organize, and the legal do's and don'ts of dealing with unions," the training description reads. "This is a mandatory class for all new managers, and is required biannually for all managers."

The posting adds that the course "is a great opportunity to meet our legal team and ask any questions you may have."

That note suggests this has been an ongoing concern, and that perhaps the effort that started back in May has only mildly reignited the need to make sure managers are on the same corporate page.

Another CNET story noted that a website calling itself Appleretailunion.com posted this explanation: "The group said wages are the big target, as are Apple's break schedules, training opportunities," and "the selection and hiring process for internal candidates for open positions."

Photo credit: Apple employees preparing for the launch of the iPhone 4 last year at Apple's flagship store in San Francisco.

(Credit: James Martin/CNET)

Posted Nov. 8, 2011, 12:38 p.m.