Maple Grove REI Workers Stage Two-Day Strike
Employees of the Maple Grove REI store walked off the job Friday as part of a two-day strike.
REI workers picketed in front of the store protesting what they describe as “unfair labor practices.”
The workers, who are members of UFCW Local 663, unionized last summer. They accuse the company of taking away merit raises from unionized stores across the country, including Maple Grove.
“Every March, we get what we call our merit raise,” said Blake Buzzo, an employee of the Maple Grove REI. “It’s been consistent as long as we’ve been here. We’ve got some people here who have been with the company for 15 years. Every year we get a merit raise in March, and so this year they decided they’re not going to give that to the nine union stores, and that’s why we’re on strike.”
Workers picket in front of the Maple Grove REI store, located at 11581 Fountains Drive.
A representative from REI issued this statement to CCX News:
Unfortunately, a number of our employees chose to walk off the job today. We were informed by employees that their activity is in recognition of the accusations that REI is withholding pay to union bust. This is simply not true. REI is committed to continuing to bargain in good faith with the union and our employees in the Maple Grove store.”
REI did announce changes to merit pay this year — along with workforce reductions — due to declining revenue. CEO Eric Artz said the moves are the result of outdoor specialty retail experiencing four quarters of declines.
Related: Maple Grove REI Reopens After Workers Picket Store
