The IAM Union has filed an unfair labor practice charge against Apple with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging unlawful discrimination against unionized workers in Towson, Maryland. The union claims Apple is treating union employees differently during store closures, specifically denying them the same relocation opportunities offered to non-union workers.

This dispute stems from Apple's recent announcement to close three stores, including the Towson location which became the first unionized Apple retail store in the U.S. in 2022. While Apple claimed union rules prevented automatic relocation, the union maintains their collective bargaining agreement allowed transfers and suggests the closure may be an attempt to break the union.

IAM International President Brian Bryant emphasized the issue is about fair treatment under labor law, stating Apple is denying union workers opportunities given to others simply because they organized. The union has demanded Apple reverse its decision and provide Towson employees with the same transfer opportunities extended to workers at non-union stores.