During a rally outside Apple Towson Town Center, the IAM Union staged a protest against the company’s plan to shut the store in June. The union, which organized the first U.S. Apple retail location, demanded equal transfer options for its workers.

Apple’s decision follows a March announcement to close three malls, citing “declining conditions.” The company limits Towson transfers to within 50 miles, offering severance otherwise, a move the union says discriminates against its members compared to non‑union sites.

Maryland lawmakers joined the protest, urging Apple for explanations. IAM’s David Sullivan accused the tech giant of targeting organized workers, vowing to pursue the case through the National Labor Relations Board.

Apple has yet to comment. The dispute highlights growing tensions between major retailers and unionized staff, with implications for labor practices across the industry.