REI Workers Walk Out In ULP Strike, Disrupting Anniversary Sale
Workers at REI in Chicago walked off the job today in an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike, protesting the company's continued failure to bargain a fair contract in good faith. The action coincides with REI's largest annual sale, disrupting operations at a critical time for the outdoor retailer.
The Chicago walkout is part of a nationwide movement by REI unionized stores represented by the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU). Ten stores across the country are facing similar stalled contract negotiations, leading to frustration and a desire for stronger worker protections.
"REI cannot hire the most notorious anti-union law firm, fail to comply with basic federal labor law, and then turn around and call themselves progressive," said Stuart Appelbaum, President of RWDSU, referring to REI's legal representation. "Co-op members, by the tens of thousands, support the REI Union, and united we are demanding REI come out from behind its false progressive green halo and commit to bargaining in good faith and reaching a fair contract."
Workers participating in the strike cited withheld merit raises and a "glacial pace" of negotiations as key factors in their decision to walk out. The REI Union National Steering Committee is demanding the company reach a fair contract by the end of 2024 and is calling on the Board of Directors to take accountability for the stalled negotiations.
The Chicago strike is the first of several planned actions by the REI Union during the company's anniversary sale period. The union is hopeful that by disrupting operations and garnering public support, they can pressure REI to return to the bargaining table and address worker concerns.
This latest development highlights the ongoing tension between REI's outward image as a progressive, worker-friendly company and the reality faced by many employees. As the unionization movement within REI continues to grow, the pressure on the company to reach a fair contract is likely to intensify.
