Apple’s first unionized store in Towson, Maryland, will shut on June 20, prompting local leaders to demand better worker options.

Baltimore Mayor Brian Scott called on Apple to let employees transfer, open a new outlet, or keep the store open, citing the location’s transit value and the community’s support. The move follows a broader trend of mall closures.

Union contracts promised rehiring rights if a new store opened within 50 miles, but no such plan exists. Employees face reapplications under non‑union terms, raising accusations of punitive closure.

Apple’s decision could damage its reputation if courts find the shutdown targets unionized staff. The move signals a shift toward standalone stores and may influence labor relations in retail tech hubs.