Members of UFCW Local 328 who work at Curaleaf’s medicinal dispensary in Hanover, Mass., ratified a first union contract on Sept. 8 that strengthens wages and benefits.
The workers, who are employed as store associates and inventory coordinators, voted unanimously to approve the three-year contract, which includes guaranteed wage increases, improved starting rates, and a ratification bonus. The contract also includes improvements in paid sick leave; additional paid holidays; protected time and a half on Sundays and holidays; a robust grievance procedure and workplace protections; and a newly secured opportunity to earn tips.
“I’m so proud of our team for sticking together and achieving this victory,” said Samuel Cortezano, a store associate and member of the negotiating committee. “We collectively made a decision to form our union during the pandemic to ensure we have a strong voice on the job and this contract is now a huge leap forward for all of us. We are proud to continue the movement of Curaleaf workers unionizing and encourage all other workers across the company to join us by saying ‘Union Yes!’”
“Forming a union at a multi-billion dollar company, the largest cannabis company in the world, is never easy,” said UFCW Local 328 Director of Organizing Sam Marvin. “However, these workers showed the power of solidarity throughout this process. We are so proud of our partnership and welcome them to our union family!”